peer pressure

the influence exerted by a peer group on its individual members to fit in with or conform to the group’s norms and expectations. Peer pressure may have positive socialization value but may also have negative consequences for mental or physical health. Also called peer-group pressure.

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Psychology term of the day

December 20th 2024

anxiety scale

any of numerous assessment instruments designed to measure the severity of anxiety symptoms. An important example is the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale. Such scales usually take the form of self-report tests but can also be based on clinician ratings or actual performance.