Peer pressure is something a lot of people have to deal with. Especially in this day and age, where sex is extremely common within our culture. Sex is perfectly normal, but just because other people are having sex does not mean you have to engage in it. Teens normally feel this pressure from their friends. They sometimes say having sex makes you cool, but this is not the situation. Others feel this peer pressure when they are on dates, and feel obligated to engage in a sexual act, even when they really don’t want to.
There are things to consider before peer pressure makes a wrong decision for you.
- Not every person of your age is having sex. Even if someone tells you, “everybody is doing it”, it is not true. There are some people that do not engage in sex.
- There are sex scenes in movies, TV programs, and even magazines. Remember, all of those people are actors, and just because they are in a sex scene does not mean they are actually having sex. If you start to engage in unsafe sex just because you feel pressured by your culture, you can be at serious risk of contracting and STI or an unplanned pregnancy.
Just remember that your body is only yours and it is your responsibility. Yes, sex can be fun, but don’t let peer pressure make that decision for you.
To avoid peer pressure, be prepared. Hang out with friends that agree on your ideas about sex. If you are on a date, have some extra money so that if you ever feel uncomfortable you can catch a cab or Uber. Be firm when you don’t want to engage in a sexual activity! No means no!
By: Peer Educator Humberto Urrutia
