Peer Pressure or Support

A peer is defined as an individual who shares a similar age or social standing with another person. Interactions among peers often create a balanced environment conducive to personal and professional development. Such relationships can exert both positive influences – such as peer support – and negative influences, including peer pressure, as individuals frequently seek acceptance and alignment with those in comparable stages of life and status.

Peer support
<<helpful assistance>>

This is widely regarded as a supportive environment where individuals share knowledge, emotional, social, or practical assistance grounded in common experiences. The atmosphere remains non-judgmental and empathetic, enabling those with lived

Am I a listening ear to the needy?

experience to guide others who face similar challenges. The Bible highlights the value of supportive friends who can help us up when we are emotionally down (Eccl 4:9,10). We in turn, are to love, care for, and encourage others, for by helping carry their burdens, we are fulfilling the law of Christ (Mk 12:31; Lk 6:31; Gal 6:2; 1 Thes 5:11).

Peer supporters facilitate the process of helping individuals recognise their strengths, enhance self-esteem, establish recovery-oriented objectives, and develop critical life skills. Peer support serves to complement and enhance traditional clinical services, providing an important asset within mental health and addiction recovery frameworks.

Observing the progress of peers during the recovery process and recognising that one is not alone can enhance hope and serve as motivation for individual development. Personalised mentorship, also known as befriending, provided by individuals with relevant lived experience, fosters hope and reduces feelings of isolation, thus contributing to the reduction of self-stigma.

Peer pressure
<<group force>>

Peer influence refers to the impact that individuals exert on a person to encourage conformity to their standards. While this type of persuasion is prevalent during adolescence, it persists in various forms throughout adulthood, often rooted in insecurity and a desire for social acceptance. The

Don’t let the world squeeze you into its mould – Romans 12:2

inclination to seek belonging among peers rather than stand out is a fundamental human characteristic (1 Sam 8:5,19,20). It is essential to resolve to uphold what is right and to make independent choices rather than yielding to external control. Refusing to comply with unwise or unethical requests may result in rejection, ridicule, social stigma, or even physical harm; however, steadfast loyalty to one's principles is supported by the assurance that divine presence remains constant – “I am always with you” (Mt 5:11,12, 28:20). Recognising that “one with God is a majority,” individuals are encouraged not to fear the judgment or actions of others (Lk 12:4, 5). Should one become involved in inappropriate situations, decisive action towards rectification is recommended (Prov 6:1-5). Scriptural guidance cautions against following the crowd in wrongdoing and warns against being unduly influenced by others (Ex 23:2; Prov 1:10-16; 1 Cor 7:23). Maintaining fidelity to personal values and principles, irrespective of societal pressures, aligns with the principle that honour comes to those who adhere to virtuous paths (1 Sam 2:30; 2 Cor 6:8). Have a strong commitment to God and live in obedience to His guidelines on conduct, given in Scripture. Don’t compromise your integrity or morals even with the threat of physical suffering, blackmail, loss of friendship, privileges, or rights.

Often, individuals face a choice between seeking approval and success in the eyes of peers through compromise or securing lasting approval through integrity and obedience to higher ethical standards. Scripturally, it is asserted that “It is better to obey God than man,” highlighting ultimate accountability (Act 4:19, 5:29; Rom 14:12). Jesus exemplified an unwavering commitment to His mission, uninfluenced by popular opinion, whereas Pilate succumbed to public pressure in sentencing Jesus (Mk 12:14; Lk 23:13-24; Jn 8:28, 12:49,50).

Nevertheless, integrating with the plans of others is advisable when such cooperation does not conflict with foundational ethical or biblical principles; alternatively, proposing suitable options can contribute positively. Demonstrating proactive leadership by advocating wholesome alternatives is commendable. Notably, Caleb and Joshua stood apart from the majority of their peers, voicing dissenting opinions at personal risk, yet ultimately were rewarded for their integrity and leadership (Num 13:30-32, 14:6-10).