By Maryam Farouk
Peer pressure remains one of the most powerful social forces in the lives of teenagers. As adolescents strive to form their identities, the desire to be accepted by peers can lead to decisions that don’t always align with their values or long-term goals.
Understanding how to navigate these influences is essential for healthy development and emotional resilience.
Experts warn that society must work to alleviate this burden and ensure teenagers have the emotional support they need to cope with such challenges, reminding them that their worth is not defined by a single exam result.
In my recent conversation with Rumanatu Aliyu, a child guardianship and family counselor, she emphasized that peer pressure is not inherently negative.
“Teens need to understand that it’s not about avoiding peers or isolating themselves, it’s about learning to assert their identity within their social world.”
One significant example of the negative effects of peer pressure, especially related to academic success, came to light following the recently concluded Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams in Nigeria.
A teenager, who was reportedly unable to meet the expectations placed on her due to the JAMB result, tragically took her own life. According to sources, the immense pressure to perform well in the exam, coupled with a fear of disappointing her peers and family, led to a devastating outcome.
According to research published by Verywell Mind, peer pressure can be both direct and indirect. Direct peer pressure may come in the form of explicit suggestions or dares, while indirect pressure involves subtle cues about what behaviors are considered acceptable or desirable within a group. Teenagers often experience this in school settings, online communities, or through social media, where fitting in can feel like a matter of survival.
The American Psychological Association notes that adolescence is a critical period for social development. The teenage brain is wired to seek peer approval due to changes in the limbic system and prefrontal cortex. This biological tendency makes teens more vulnerable to peer influence, especially in emotionally charged situations.
Rumanatu said it’s equally important that teenagers maintain connections with trusted adults—whether parents, teachers, counselors, or mentors. These figures can offer guidance, listen without judgment, and provide practical tools to manage stressful peer interactions.
In the end, every teenager has the power to choose their own path. By being equipped with the right tools, self-awareness, positive relationships, assertiveness, and adult support, so they can navigate peer pressure with clarity and confidence. As Rumanatu reminded me, “It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being prepared.”
