S Peer pressure, regardless of age, gender, or background, exerts a I still harbour deep-seated resentment towards her, and I've yet to find the words to discuss the pain. I was just 22 years old then. I am only sharing my story 20 years later." Peer pressure, regardless of age, gender, or background, exerts a powerful powerful influence on individuals. it marked the end of our friendship, and we only reconnected six years ago. While we maintain contact, influence on individuals. For women, this influence can be particularly overwhelming, especially when it comes from their women friends. Whether it's about style, appearance, relationships, or lifestyle choices, the pressure to conform often intensifies within women’s social circles. In the realm of dating and relationships, this peer pressure can manifest in harmful ways. Women often face unspoken expectations to uphold a particular lifestyle, one that's frequently dictated by their friends. This lifestyle may encompass frequenting high-end clubs, donning expensive attire, and dating men perceived as successful or affluent. The fear of not fitting in and avoiding judgement from peers can lead women to make choices they might not otherwise consider.
The social settings where these lifestyles are perpetuated, such as clubs and social gatherings, can become breeding grounds for predatory behaviour. Alcohol and a party atmosphere can create an environment in which women are particularly vulnerable to unwelcome advances, harassment, and even sexual violence. The pressure to stay part of the "in-crowd" can cause women to compromise their safety, and the insidious aspect of this issue is the silence that surrounds it. Many women who experience sexual violence and abuse in these situations may feel too ashamed or scared to speak out. They may fear their friends will blame them or distance themselves if they reveal the dark reality behind their seemingly glamorous lifestyle. The path to breaking this toxic cycle begins with open communication and honest conversations among women. Friends should be able to speak candidly about their feelings, fears, and concerns without the fear of judgement or rejection. Trust and empathy should form the bedrock of women’s social circles, allowing women to feel safe in discussing their experiences.
November 2023 | Collective Action Magazine
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