Influence Peer Groups on Adult Behavior - Deeply Research IJD

While peer influence is often discussed in the context of childhood and adolescence, it continues to play a powerful role in adulthood. Adults, like younger individuals, are shaped by the people they spend time with. Peer groups help define social norms, influence choices, and even affect mental and emotional well-being. This essay explores how peer groups impact adult behavior in different aspects of life.

1. Social Norms and Pressure:
Adults often adjust their behavior to fit the norms of their peer group. These norms may involve financial habits, lifestyle choices, opinions, or even fashion. For instance, being part of a professional peer group may push an individual to pursue higher education or career growth, while another group may normalize spending on luxury, regardless of income level. This kind of social pressure is subtle but powerful and can shape decision-making.

2. Emotional Support and Confidence:
Positive peer groups offer emotional support and encouragement. Adults who surround themselves with supportive friends tend to have higher self-esteem and resilience. This influence promotes healthy coping mechanisms, motivation to achieve goals, and openness to seeking help when needed. Peer encouragement can make a big difference in handling stress and anxiety.

3. Risky or Harmful Behavior:
Just as peers can encourage good behavior, they can also lead to negative patterns. Some adults engage in smoking, excessive drinking, or other unhealthy habits due to peer influence. Fear of rejection or desire to belong may push individuals to make choices they otherwise wouldn't. This is particularly common in social circles where risky behavior is normalized.

4. Career and Ambition:
Peer groups can shape professional motivation. Being around high-achieving peers can inspire an individual to work harder, aim higher, and pursue personal development. On the other hand, lack of ambition within a peer group may limit one’s vision or reduce motivation for growth.

5. Beliefs and Values:
Over time, adults may adopt or adjust their personal beliefs based on those of their peer group. This includes political views, religious practices, parenting styles, and even attitudes toward relationships and marriage. The need for social acceptance or alignment with close peers can lead to shifts in deeply held values

Conclusion:
Peer influence does not end with adolescence. Adults continue to be affected by the people they associate with, both positively and negatively. Peer groups shape behavior, choices, beliefs, and emotional well-being. Recognizing the power of peer influence in adulthood can help individuals make more conscious decisions about who they surround themselves with and how they are affected by them.


References:

1. Santrock, J. W. (2019). Life-Span Development (17th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
2. Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Prentice Hall.
3. Christakis, N. A., & Fowler, J. H. (2009). Connected: The Surprising Power of Our Social Networks and How They Shape Our Lives. Little, Brown Spark.



Psychosocial Researcher:

Jean de DIeu I.