Which concept explains the influence of peers on an individual's decisions and actions?

Peer pressure is a concept that specifically refers to the influence exerted by a peer group on its individual members. It emphasizes how individuals might change their behavior, decisions, or actions to align with those of their peers, often in social settings where they seek acceptance or approval. This influence can manifest in various ways, such as adopting specific behaviors, attitudes, or values showcased within the group.

In the context of social settings, peer pressure can lead to both positive and negative outcomes. For example, it may encourage positive behaviors like studying hard or engaging in healthy activities, but it can also lead to detrimental choices, such as substance abuse or risky behaviors, when individuals conform to negative influences.

While social pressure encompasses a broader range of influences that can come from various social contexts and is not limited to peers, peer pressure specifically targets the dynamic within groups of individuals who are at similar social or developmental stages. Influence strategy and group dynamics are concepts that pertain to how groups operate and influence each other but do not pinpoint the direct impact of peers on individual decision-making in the same way that peer pressure does.