How do peer groups affect the learning of the students?

There are pro's and cons to this. Some students dont have the confidence to stand alone, so to speak, and follow the crowd to fit in. Others are confident in themselves and take the lead. If the student has a good, healthy home base and is allowed to express themselves then they will lead. If the student is in a home that has negativity more then anything they will follow. Talking with kids is the best preventative to let them know that everything they feel is important and that their being is valued. Teaching good morals and compassion is the front line to getting a student to think for themselves. Teenagers are as impressionable as a five year old, even though they think they rule the world. They need to be kept in check by confident, positive adults so peer pressure doesnt make them cave to the masses.