Inadequate Parental Care, Poor Leaders, Factors Promoting Peer Pressure 

By Georgina Humphrey

Lack of adequate parental care and poor leadership have been identified as factors promoting peer pressure.

Former minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung stated this while featuring on “Perspectives” a Kapital FM Current Affairs Programme in Abuja.

Speaking on the topic, “The effects of peer groups on Nigerian adolescents”, Dalung explained that the social economic realities of the society play a fundamental role in peer groups.

“The environment shapes behavior, but [people tend to overlook the social contagion,” the former minister emphasized.

He added that the absence of providing guidance was a major challenge that has affected youths negatively.

“The traditional idea is that you want your kids to pick their peers carefully, because if your kids are friends with the ‘good kids,’ they’ll be more likely to walk the straight and narrow way,” Dalung added.

The Former Youths minister appealed to parents to create time in catering for the upbringing of their wards for a better society.

Another guest on the programme, Board Member & Focal Person Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA), Abdullahi Sale explained that Peer pressure can cause loss of individuality and can make a teen adapt to habits they never would have if peers weren’t a part of their life.

“Drinking, smoking, drugs, and such dangerous habits are something one can get addicted to because of peer pressure”.

Mr. Sale who called for the restoration of value systems in all schools added that leadership gaps have also promoted peer pressure negatively by lack of mentoring.

“Negative peer pressure can enforce unhealthy habits and steer you away from your values. If peer pressure forces you to compromise your duties or beliefs, there’s a chance it’s negative” he emphasized.

Mr. Sale therefore urged parents to create adequate time for their children in instilling good training and thereby building a sane society.

Edited By Grace Nameji