During adolescence, young people experience fast physical, emotional, and cognitive changes, which can be challenging and stressful. While many stressors can affect adolescents, two external stressors unique to this age group are peer pressure and academic pressure (Anniko et al., 2019). This paper discusses peer pressure and academic pressure as the two external stressors unique to adolescents.
Peer Pressure as An External Stressor in Adolescence
For many teenagers, peer pressure is a significant source of stress. Young adults in this stage of life are frequently concerned about blending in and being accepted by their peers. A strong desire to follow the social standards of their peer group may come from this, even if those norms go against their values or beliefs. Teenagers, for example, may engage in risky behavior to impress their classmates or feel pressured to try drugs or alcohol because their friends are doing it (Anniko et al., 2019). Such pressure can be overwhelming and have negative consequences like addiction or other serious health issues.
Academic Pressure as An External Stressor in Adolescence
Teenage stress is often aggravated by academic pressure. Students preparing for college in their senior year may feel much academic pressure. To get into a reputable university, many young people experience intense pressure to do well in their classrooms, participate in extracurricular activities, and keep a high GPA. Students from disadvantaged origins or those who believe their prospects depend on their academic success may particularly feel this pressure (Anniko et al., 2019). The stress of academic pressure can significantly harm teenagers’ emotional and physical health if it is not well managed, leading to anxiety, despair, and fatigue.
Ways To Support Adolescents In Handling Academic And Social Pressures
Adolescents need to establish their identities and views to manage peer pressure effectively. Students ought to be aware that being unique is acceptable and that fitting in does not require adhering to the standards set by their peer group. Adolescents can benefit significantly from the assistance of their parents and teachers in helping them make wise decisions and deal with peer pressure (Anniko et al., 2019). It is critical to keep communication lines open and respond to their concerns without passing judgment.
Adolescents can use a variety of coping mechanisms to handle academic pressure successfully. Setting realistic goals, dividing chores into manageable chunks, setting priorities, and taking part in stress-relieving physical activities are some of these tactics. Parents and educators can also help teenagers by giving them access to the tools they need, such as tutoring or counseling (Anniko et al., 2019).
In conclusion, this paper has discussed the two external stresses that are specific to adolescents: peer pressure and academic pressure. Teenagers transform adolescence, bringing new stressors, including peer and academic pressure. These external stressors can negatively impact young people’s welfare if they are not effectively controlled (Anniko et al., 2019). Parents, schools, and health professionals may assist teenagers in navigating this challenging phase of life and enhancing their general health by being aware of and responding to these pressures.
References
Anniko, M. K., Boersma, K., & Tillfors, M. (2019). Sources of stress and worry in developing stress-related mental health problems: A longitudinal investigation from early-to mid-adolescence. Anxiety, Stress, & Coping, 32(2), 155-167. https://doi.org/10.1080/10615806.2018.1549657
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