Peer Pressure & Refusal Skills
What is one simple way to say "no" without being rude?
"No thanks."
What is something to keep in mind when making a choice?
How will my choice affect others?
How will my choice affect my personal future?
How will I feel later about my choice?
What are the consequences involved?
Myth or Fact: “The majority of students vape in high school.”
Myth.
More students choose not to vape according to the Youth Voices Count Survey that was done last spring.
Name one short-term consequence of vaping.
Coughing, dizziness, headaches.
What is one healthy way to deal with stress?
Deep breathing, talking to someone, exercise, journaling, listening to music.
Name one non-verbal refusal skill.
Shake your head no, walk away, look person directly in the eye while refusing.
What is a consequence? Is it always negative?
The result of a choice or decision made. Can be positive or negative.
Myth or Fact: “If you don’t go along with what others are doing, you won't have friends.”
Myth — real friends don’t pressure you.
Name one long-term consequence of underage drinking.
Memory problems, addiction risk, legal trouble.
What coping skill helps calm your body quickly?
Box breathing, deep breathing, meditation.
What is peer pressure?
Feeling pushed/forced or influenced by someone to do something.
When a peer/peers wants you to do something you do not want to do.
Why is it important to think before acting in risky situations?
It helps you avoid negative consequences.
Myth or Fact: “Vaping is harmless because it’s not smoke.”
Myth — it still contains chemicals and can harm lungs.
What could be a consequence if you make a risky choice?
Losing trust, friendships damaged, punishment at school, not feeling good about yourself.
What is one unhealthy coping skill teens sometimes try?
Using substances, isolating themselves, ignoring their feelings.
What is an assertive refusal? (Definition)
Saying no with confidence — using a clear voice, eye contact, and sticking to your decision.
Give an example of a positive consequence of saying no.
Staying safe, not getting in trouble with parents or teachers, protecting health.
Myth or Fact: “Stress is a normal part of life, and there are healthy ways to deal with it.”
Fact.
Why can risky decisions online be especially harmful?
Things posted online can spread or stay forever.
Why is it helpful to have more than one coping skill you can use?
Different situations need different strategies, so having options helps you handle anything.
Why is practicing refusal skills in advance helpful?
You’re more confident and prepared when real situations happen.
What are the guidelines for explaining?
Say what you don’t like → Show or say how it affects you → Say what you want to do or plan to do about it.
Myth or Fact: “One risky decision can lead to long-term consequences.”
Fact.
Explain the difference between short-term and long-term consequences.
Short-term happen right away; long-term happen later or build over time.
Name one person you can go to for help.
School counselor, parent, trusted friend, guardian.