Navigating peer pressure and friendships

As boys in their early teens start to form their own identities, friendships become a crucial part of their development. However, this age also brings the challenge of peer pressure, which can sometimes push boys to make choices they wouldn’t otherwise make. As a parent, your guidance is key to helping your son navigate these social dynamics in a healthy way.

Encourage open communication
One of the most important things you can do is provide an environment where your son feels comfortable talking to you about his friends and any challenges he faces. Ask open-ended questions like, “How did your day go?” or “What did you and your mates get up to?”

This lets you stay informed without being overbearing. When he shares concerns about peer pressure, be ready to listen without judgment. This will help him feel supported and less alone when faced with difficult situations.

Help him build confidence
Boys who are confident in themselves are less likely to give in to peer pressure. Encourage your son to pursue activities that interest him, whether that’s sports, music, or art. The more he develops his own interests and talents, the more confident he’ll feel standing up for what he believes in, even when others might try to push him in a different direction.

Teach healthy friendship values
Help your son understand what makes a good friend—honesty, respect, and kindness. Teach him how to set boundaries and recognise when a friendship isn’t healthy. If he’s being pressured into doing something he’s uncomfortable with, it’s important to know that it’s okay to walk away or say no.

A few tips

It takes practice to stand up to peer pressure but these tips from Kids Helpline can help your son be true to himself.

What to say and do when you experience peer pressure:

A confident ‘no thanks’ or ‘not for me’

Use humour to deflect pressure or attention

Move away from the situation

Be direct and say you don’t appreciate feeling pressured

Get support and talk to someone you trust

Know what you’re willing to let slide and what you’re not okay with

Remind your son that it’s okay to feel confused or struggle with peer pressure. Everybody faces it at some point in their lives.  With your support, your son can learn to build strong, positive friendships while confidently handling peer pressure.

Brought to you by Brighton Grammar School