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Peer Pressure

Definition

Peer pressure refers to influence exerted by a peer group in encouraging a person to change their attitudes, values, or behaviors in order to conform to group norms.

Analogy

Imagine being at an amusement park with friends who want you to ride the roller coaster but you're scared of heights. The encouragement from your friends pushing you towards something you wouldn't normally do is similar to peer pressure.

Related terms

Conformity: This refers to adjusting our behavior or thinking based on what others are doing. It's like finally deciding to get on that roller coaster because everyone else is doing it too.

Groupthink: A situation where group members try to minimize conflict and reach consensus without critically testing alternatives. Like agreeing with your friends that the roller coaster is safe, without checking safety measures yourself.

Normative Social Influence: This refers to influence resulting from a person's desire to gain approval or avoid disapproval. Like riding the roller coaster just so you won't be called a 'chicken' by your friends.