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What does peer pressure look like? Sometimes it is obvious. Sometimes it looks more like a joke, a …
NICOFIENDS / PRESSURE
Pressure is not always someone shouting “do it”. It can be a dare, a joke, a look, a group going quiet or the feeling that everyone else has already said yes.
You can notice the pressure without letting it make the choice for you.
MEET THE NICOFIENDS
These are the purple Pressure Nicofiends from the card game. They show some of the ways other people or a group can start nudging a choice.
“Everyone seems to…”
When other people are doing something, copying can feel easier than stopping to ask whether you actually want to.
“Don’t be boring!”
Teasing, repeat asking or turning something into a joke can make a quick yes feel easier than holding your ground.
“Everyone’s doing it.”
A group can make something feel normal even when plenty of people are not doing it at all.
“Bet you won’t.”
Turning a choice into a challenge can shift the focus from what you want to proving something to somebody else.
WHAT DOES PRESSURE ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
If the easiest way to avoid an awkward moment seems to be saying yes, that still counts as pressure. Spotting it gives you a second to decide what you want.
“Go on then.” “Bet you won’t.” “Just try it.”
“Don’t be boring.” “Why are you scared?”
Everyone else seems relaxed about it, so saying no suddenly feels like the unusual choice.
You already answered, but somebody keeps asking until giving in feels easier than repeating yourself.
NICOFRIENDS
A short answer is enough. So is changing the subject, walking away or getting somebody on your side.
Ask yourself: would I choose this if nobody else was here?
Leaving an awkward moment is allowed. You do not have to stay and win an argument.
A friend, sibling, teacher or youth worker can make it easier when someone keeps pushing.
Have one simple phrase ready: “Nah, I’m good”, “Not for me” or just “No thanks”.
If you are already smoking, vaping or using nicotine, you can get support without being judged.
You do not have to work out everything on your own. Pick the option that sounds closest to what is happening.
Keep exploring another Nicofiends area, get support, or head back to the campaign.