Feeling the Pressure

As you go through puberty, it’s totally normal to care more about what your friends and classmates think. But sometimes, it can feel like there’s a lot of pressure to act or look a certain way, or do things just to fit in.

What is Peer Pressure?

Peer pressure is when people around your age—like friends, classmates or siblings—try to influence how you act, dress or even what music you listen to.

It might be small stuff like:

• What you wear
• What shows you watch
• What games you play

But it can also be more serious, like:

• Being pushed to smoke or drink
• Doing things in a relationship you’re not ready for
• Saying or doing things you’re uncomfortable with

Remember: Real friends respect you for being yourself.

It’s Your Choice

It can be tough to say no to peer pressure, especially when you want to fit in. But remember:

You are in charge of your own choices.
You don’t have to do something just because other people are doing it.

Relationships and Respect

Feeling Pressured in a Relationship?

Starting relationships is part of growing up, but no one should ever make you feel uncomfortable or force you into anything. You might hear things like:

• “If you really liked me, you’d do it.”
• “Don’t be boring!”

It’s always your body, your choice.

Respecting Boundaries

No one should ever touch you or talk to you in a sexual way unless you say it’s okay. If someone:

• Touches you without permission
• Sends inappropriate messages
• Tries to force you into anything

That’s not respectful—and it can be against the law.
If this ever happens, tell an adult you trust as soon as you can.

Privacy Matters

When you're growing up, it's normal to want more personal space.

You might:

• Want your door closed when you change
• Prefer to shower in private
• Want people to knock before entering your room

You deserve privacy, and people should respect it.