When we think of Peer Pressure in relation to substance, we often picture youth's peers encouraging them to use. But both internal peer pressure and external peer pressure influence behavior even though they originate from different sources and mechanisms:
Internal Peer Pressure:
1. Personal Standards: Internal peer pressure comes from the individual's own values, beliefs, and expectations. It is driven by internalized norms and standards regarding behavior, choices, and goals.
2. Self-Esteem and Identity: It is influenced by how individuals perceive themselves in relation to their social group or community. There is a desire to maintain self-esteem and identity alignment with personal values.
3. Intrinsic Motivation: Decisions are based on personal satisfaction, fulfillment, or the desire to achieve personal goals rather than external rewards or approval.
4. Autonomy: Individuals feel a sense of autonomy and control over their decisions and actions, guided by their own internal compass.
External Peer Pressure:
1. Social Influence: External peer pressure originates from outside sources such as friends, peers, family, or social groups. It involves expectations or norms imposed by others.
2. Conformity: There is a tendency to conform to group norms or expectations in order to gain acceptance, approval, or avoid rejection or criticism.
3. Extrinsic Motivation: Decisions may be influenced by external rewards, incentives, or the fear of negative consequences imposed by others.
4. Social Comparison: Individuals compare themselves to others and may adjust their behavior to fit in or align with perceived social norms or expectations.
Differences and Interplay:
- Source: Internal peer pressure originates from within the individual, reflecting personal values and goals. External peer pressure comes from outside sources, emphasizing conformity to group norms or expectations.
- Control: Internal peer pressure allows for greater autonomy and personal agency in decision-making. External peer pressure can exert control over behavior through social norms or the desire for social acceptance.
- Motivation: Internal peer pressure is often associated with intrinsic motivation driven by personal values and satisfaction. External peer pressure may involve extrinsic motivation tied to external rewards or avoidance of social repercussions.
- Impact: Internal peer pressure influences long-term personal development and self-identity. External peer pressure can impact immediate behavior and social interactions, affecting social acceptance and relationships.
Understanding these distinctions helps individuals navigate peer influences more effectively, fostering a balance between personal values, social connections, and external expectations. Balancing internal and external pressures allows for authentic self-expression while maintaining healthy relationships and social integration.
If you're a teacher, administrator, or program coordinator who works with K-5 students and is interested in our Face2Face team working with your group on resiliency skills, which combat Peer Pressure, contact us, and we'll work to fit your program's needs. face2face@ked.org 716-827-9462
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