Peer pressure can be difficult to resist. Most people don’t want to make others feel bad, but it’s important for the kids in your life to know that they can stand up for themselves. Here are some strategies you can teach them that help with spoken pressure.
Do:
• Say no assertively
• Suggest something else to do
• Stand up for others
• Walk away from the situation
• Find something else to do with other friends
Don’t:
• Go to a party where you know people will be drinking alcohol
• Attend a party unprepared to resist alcohol
• Be afraid to say no
• Mumble
• Say no too aggressively
• Act like a know-it-all when saying no
Your middle schooler can also consider returning the challenge by saying, “I thought you were my friend,” or “I don’t want to drink, and if you’re my friend you won’t ask me to.”
Quick Guide – Know Your No’s