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<p><strong>PEER PRESSURE</strong></p>
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<p>Ever wondered how adolescents can behave in a manner contrary to their usual behaviour especially when in a group. Please think about this when you come across news articles about adolescents and youth involved in a crime as a group, which can be as gruesome as assault, rape, robbery or a murder.</p>
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<p>Parents are responsible for their children till they become adults, logically and legally.</p>
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<p>Every child experiences Peer Pressure and there is an intense desire to conform to the peer group, to belong and be accepted.&nbsp; It is the driving force behind many of their actions and decisions. These can include risk-taking behaviour and the initiation of substance abuse.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>It is unnatural to expect any adolescent to stay away from or not do what the peer group does. The peer group influences the attitudes and beliefs that the adolescent develops. We need to teach our children to be mindful about the rights and wrongs. Saying NO may not be easy for them in such situations. Assertiveness training before they face such situations is very useful.</p>
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<p>There is so much that can be discussed about this. As parents, there is so much to do. Please do seek guidance if you feel the need to.</p>
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<p><strong>“BUILDING RESILIENCE” - CRUCIAL PROTECTIVE FACTORS</strong></p>
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<p>Children with higher levels of the following factors are less likely to engage in risky health behaviours. Some of these Protective factors are :</p>
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<ul><li>A parenting style that is loving and supportive</li><li>High self - esteem&nbsp;</li><li>Coping skills, to cope with anxiety and stress</li><li>Positive relationships with peers</li><li>Healthy involvement in school activities</li><li>Healthy engagement with adults outside the home&nbsp;</li><li>Ability and opportunity to express and discuss their feelings</li><li>Parents who are coping well with life themselves are good role models.</li></ul>
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<p>These Protective factors enhance the Child's resilience to face adversity.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
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<p>A resilient child is one who is socially competent, confident, with problem-solving skills, and a sense of purpose and future.&nbsp;</p>
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