Peer-group pressure for kids

20 Feb, 2026

I feel somewhat fortunate not to have children, and deal with the challenges they face with peer-pressure.

I read, with interest, Kevin Quirk's post about giving a mobile phone to his young son. It made me think about the ever-present expectations from kids, and the burden it places on their parents.

As a child, I was vociferous in my views, even at a young age. As I developed into my self-awareness years, and towards the teenage era, my peers were focusing on label-branded clothes and shoes. The must-haves were Adidas sneakers, and a variety of labelled items of clothing.

I, however, was forming my own opinion and not following the sheep. I very quickly decided I would not wear branded clothing. Why should I (my parents) pay inflated prices to advertise a brand. There was the added complexity that my hormones were developing, my body was stretching, and my need for new clothes was constant as I grew into teen-years.

No doubt my parents were quietly pleased that I was not interested in the branding, which would ease the burden on their cash! However, I have a sister who didn't share my views and there was many a negotiation with the parents on why see needed the latest whatever.

Pressure

Although I didn't wear the labels, I didn't receive much criticism from others of my age. I count myself lucky in that respect. I was a strong-minded teen, who didn't mix with the cool-crew so I didn't need to conform.

It did me no harm, and I developed into who I am now -- which of course is an amazing person!! haha, shall we have a vote?!

An now

To this day, I refuse to wear any clothing with a tag or label. I am not a walking advert for their often poorly made over-inflated priced garments.

No envy

I do not envy parents these days. Children appear to be under so much more pressure, and at a younger age, to have the correct thing to comply with their social groups.

Finally

My top tip to everyone: be yourself, not a sheep. It's far more interesting making your own statement than being a clone of someone else's fantasy.

And to Kevin and his wife -- it sounds like they are facing the challenge head on, making (in my un-informed, non-parent opinion) some good decisions on how their son can use his new device.

For context, I was a teen throughout the 80s -- no mobile phone challenges!!

#Life