Tips 7 & 8 Peer Pressure/Refusal Skills
Provided by the Safe Schools Unit, San Diego County Office of Education

Students:

• Never compromise your safety because of peer pressure, talk things our with your parents
• Practice "Refusal Skills" ahead of time. You can learn how to say "No" without losing your friends
• Refusal Skills:
  1. Have a fast talk with yourself: describe the scenario, then state consequences
  2. Listen to your own good judgement, make a smart choice
  3. Think of an alternative activity that's fun, legal and safe
• Hang out with friends who make smart choices

Parents:

• Model responsible behavior
• Discuss peer pressure scenarios with your kids ahead of time and practice "Refusal Skills"
• Praise your child's good choices
• Get to know your children's friends
• Never offer alcohol in lieu of drugs, alcohol is a drug

Schools:

• Offer safe, social activities