4 Foolproof Ways Your Daughter Can Learn To Conquer Peer Pressure

Sadly, it’s a “mean girl world,” and our kids need support to fight the pressures and pitfalls.

Peggy McFarland LCPC

1.  Resist making popularity her main goal. It’s a dead-end competition that will constantly leave her feeling insecure. Find groups that are based upon shared interests, not popularity. Maybe the labels she is putting on others are keeping her stuck in the competition roller coaster. If she likes music, why not join in with the “band geeks” and discover some real fun? Why not hang out in the library with the “nerds” who love books? She can find out who shares her interests and make an effort to be their friend. They are looking for safety from “mean girls” too.   She can learn to live her life based upon interests and talent, not status!

2. Do not bully, criticize others, or spread rumors to feel important. Can she be “The Floater” who has friends in many groups and learns to help others to feel safe? Yes, her current group will criticize her for leaving the group, but they will get over it. Remember that is their job, to keep the group going at all costs.

3.  Fill her life with interests that help her avoid girl drama. There is so much to learn in this world! Pick a topic and become an expert. Develop a talent. Do some volunteer work.

4. Learn to listen to her inner voice. She can learn to rely more upon God as a source of love and support. You can validate her ability to recognize promptings by helping her recognize her emotions. Be a safe place for her to process her up’s and down’s.

Use this infographic to help your daughter to set new goals for her social life. Right click and select “Save As.” Save the image to your computer. Print. Hang in a visible place. Have frequent discussions about the social challenges your daughter is facing. She will welcome your willingness to listen.