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The myth of peer pressure
1School of Social Work, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, Canada.
Adolescence
|June 7, 2000
Summary
Peer pressure among adolescents is a myth; youths strategically adopt peer behaviors to gain social power and construct positive identities. This process involves stages of identity exploration and collaborative self-definition with peers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Adolescent Development
Background:
- Adults often perceive adolescent behavior through the lens of "peer pressure."
- This study investigates the actual role of peer influence on adolescent mental health determinants.
- Previous research has not fully explored adolescents' perspectives on peer interactions and identity formation.