Skip to content
    Psychology GCSE

    Peer influence

    What Peer influence means in Psychology GCSE, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Peer influence

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Peer influence in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    People, especially young people, begin and continue addictive behaviour such as smoking or drinking because friends do it, because they want to fit in and because peers model and reward the behaviour.
    AQA · Psychological problems
    The effect of people of similar age or status on a person's behaviour, including substance use.
    AQA · Psychological problems

    Topics that use Peer influence

    Related terms

    Using Peer influence in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Psychology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Psychology GCSE terms