“Just say no”: why it's simply not that simple

Drug Graphic ( RubyMarie Costa/ The Puma Prensa)

Written By: Ruby Marie Costa-Thompson

Teenagers are certainly not an age group known for following the rules. It doesn't matter how much the lives of teenagers will change with the times, one thing is a constant: they want to take risks, and they want to have fun. Oftentimes, this “fun” consists of less than legal activities. Alcohol and drug use is ever persistent in this age group, as studies show that more than 50% of teens have misused a drug at least once; with the most common being marijuana (NCDAS). While this high percentage could be equated to numerous factors, one of the biggest culprits is peer pressure. Many who hear this term might then claim that the solution is as simple as “just saying no,” but is that really all it takes, and are teenagers capable of taking that advice?

In actuality, the solution is a lot more complex than those three words. While the term peer pressure is applied most commonly in the context of drugs and alcohol, someone can be peer pressured into doing anything; and any group of people is capable of peer pressure. Teenagers are so susceptible to peer pressure due to the worry many of them have about fitting in. Being isolated or ostracized seems like a nightmare, and many teens will give in to doing something they otherwise wouldn’t just to avoid those emotional states.

It's not only social, however. Biologically, teeangers are more susceptible to peer pressure than adults due to their undeveloped prefrontal cortex. This part of the brain helps with discerning whether a situation is safe, or whether the choices they are making are responsible. Without this safeguard, teens are more likely to find risky situations or actions appealing, and less likely to realize when they need to stop something before it's too late.

It's not easy to overcome the social and biological aspects of peer pressure, but it's also not impossible. Surrounding yourself with people that share your values and beliefs about drug and alcohol safety makes it so you're far less likely to be peer pressured. Even if you are in a larger group of people, having just one person with you that you can trust is a huge help. It's much easier to say “no” when you're not the only one saying it. If you are persistently asked, making up an excuse or a lie can often get you out of it. Overall, the best way to avoid peer pressure is to not put yourself in situations where you know peer pressure is common. Even if you are experimenting with drugs or alcohol by your own choice, peer pressure can prompt you to go beyond what you are comfortable with. Surround yourself with people you trust, and never become inebriated around people you either don’t know or specifically don’t feel safe with.

While it's not as easy as “just saying no,” it’s possible to avoid peer pressure if you are well prepared and informed in the choices that you make.