Social Inoculation Theory

Start Simple

• Teaching children to resist peer pressure should start long before they know what it is, and before the dangers become greater and more grown-up. Have hypothetical conversations with a child about certain moral situations, establishing how to do the right thing. Cliches may work at a young age, such as convincing the child that they do not always have to do what everyone else is doing. Present specific examples that they can understand, such as not hurting an animal or stealing someone's toys.

Passive Implementation

• The passive approach is one of two ways to teach children to resist peer pressure. Provide reading material opposed to certain behaviors. If a father does not want his son to smoke, he should offer information that paints it in a negative light. Material does not have to be obvious or preachy, but it should be consistently applied so that the message sinks in. The message can also be worked into daily conversation, especially when an opportunity arises, such as seeing an advertisement for cigarettes or someone smoking. Surround the child with cultural, family, and social influences that support the desired behavior.

Active Implementation

• The active approach is similar to the passive approach, but more direct. Underline specific passages in the reading material or have the child write it out. Do not use this as punishment after the deed, but rather as a preventative measure to get your point across.

Proof

• As children grow into their prepubescent and teen years, it will be necessary to focus on things that can be proven, such as smoking causes cancer, or alcohol kills brain cells. Avoid cliches and hyperbole because children can often see through extreme examples. For instance, an apple a day doesn't really keep the doctor away, but eating healthy meals and exercising will lead to fewer doctor visits. Don't expect older children to simply believe statements like "Stealing is wrong." Support it with a reason.

Peer Pressure

• Social inoculation maintains that peer pressure is successful for a number of reasons, including the notion that peers are a good place to get reliable information, and that friends make better role models than parents or other elders. Peer education thrives in the absence of proper parental or social education.

Criticisms

• Critics of social inoculation believe that focusing on potential future problems is impossible, especially if it occurs at a young age before children realize what is being asked of them. Parents should talk to their children as problems arise, because by then they will be old enough to weigh their options. Opponents also maintain that peer pressure might not be the problem, since a child will blame peers for certain activities, like smoking or drinking, even if the friend was not involved. A child may not be succumbing to peer pressure at all, but simply blaming others.