Peer pressure is an influence that changes a person's behavior or attitude to conform to a group. Choosing whether to smoke is a big decision and is heavily influenced by peers who are regular smokers.
Statistics
The Centers for Disease Control states that more than one third of children who try cigarettes due to peer pressure end up becoming regular smokers. In 2008, the number of young people under the age of 18 using tobacco in the United States was 2.8 million. Twenty one percent of U.S. adults are currently smokers.
Why Give In?
No matter the age of the person, giving in to peer pressure can be due to a variety of things. For most, picking up the smoking habit is seen as a way to fit in or to be liked. In some cases, being bullied could be the reason for a child to start smoking. Regardless of how a person may be pressured, these strong social influences are a big factor in whether someone, especially a young person, chooses to smoke, according to Kids Health from Nemours.
Saying No
Most smokers start as a teenager due to being surrounded by friends and family that smoke and to the fact that society makes it look safe and cool. Adults often associate smoking with stress relief and relaxation as well as being socially acceptable.The unfortunate part is that the younger a person starts smoking due to pressures of society and peers, the more likey he or she will become addicted to nicotine, one of the many chemicals found in a cigarette says the American Cancer Society.
It can be tough to say no to peer pressure, especially when it comes to smoking, but it can be done.
Learn the facts about smoking and how it affects the body and the wallet, as a way to say no. Try to surround yourself with other people that make the choice not to smoke and ask those that do smoke to please not do it around you. Be confident in your decisions and know that not only will you save money, you will also live a healthier life.
