Peer Pressure Affects Decision-Making

Adolescents are still developing the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control (the prefrontal cortex). When surrounded by peers, they may feel more pressure to take risks, even when they know better. Being in group settings can intensify emotions and lead to choices they might not make on their own. Whether it’s trying drugs, cheating on a test, or going along with a harmful joke, the pressure to “fit in” often overrides the voice of reason. Teaching teens to pause and think before acting, especially in peer-driven moments, can help reduce impulsive decisions and support healthier outcomes.