3.2.7—Peer influence
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2027
- Objective
- 3.2.7
- Level
- SL
Peers influence the self through belonging and comparison
Peer influence occurs when people of similar age or status shape behaviour, identity or norms. Social identity processes can make group membership meaningful, while comparison supplies standards for belonging and distinction.
Influence can support prosocial behaviour or increase risk, depending on the group norm, status structure, opportunity and the person's need for acceptance. Agency and multiple peer groups prevent a single-pressure explanation.
A new student may adopt a team's training routine to be recognised as a member. If the team rewards unsafe dieting, the same belonging mechanism can produce harm rather than health.
Peer influence is not automatically conformity or coercion. Identify the group, the valued identity, the reward or sanction and whether the person accepted or resisted the norm.