How can friends best counteract the negative influence of peer pressure?

A. By being assertive

Answer:

A. By being assertive

Explanation:

Peer pressure can lead individuals—especially teens or young adults—to make decisions they may not feel comfortable with just to fit in or be accepted by a group. One of the most effective ways to counteract this negative influence is assertiveness.

Being assertive means confidently expressing your own opinions, needs, and boundaries in a respectful way, without being passive or aggressive. When friends are assertive:

Assertiveness helps individuals stand up for themselves while maintaining healthy friendships and not giving in to pressure just to be liked or accepted.