Inappropriate behaviour and peer pressure
Young people in Bexley suggest that if you do not like the way other people are behaving, including adults who may be trying to exploit you should:
- Not give in
- Be brave, and keep your self-esteem
- Don’t do anything that you are not comfortable with
- Remember that your behaviour can harm your reputation
- Be careful who you are friendly with
- Remember that if people give you gifts, they usually want something in return. They may want to exploit you
- Be with people you trust.
Childline have made a short and helpful film about peer pressure called ‘Why can’t I say no to my friends?’:
Childline also have some useful resources on their website:
These resources talk about situations where you might find yourself being pressured to:
- Drink, smoke or take drugs
- Bully others
- Lose weight or look a certain way
- Have sex or send sexual messages or images
- Get into trouble.
Who to contact if you are being pressured?
If you feel you are being pressured, you should talk to an adult that you can confide in. Whether this is a parent, a family friend or a teacher, telling someone can help you get the support you need to stop this.
You can contact Childline via their website:
https://www.childline.org.uk/get-support/contacting-childline/
You can sign up for a Childline account on the website to be able to message a counsellor anytime without using your email address. If you’re under 19 you can confidentially call, email, or chat online about any problem big or small.
Freephone 24h helpline: 0800 1111
