There may be no singular power more dominant in an environment where tight clothes
and hormones reigns supreme than the "peer group". This natural phenomena is
essentially the student body, brooding over each child as if it were some sort of byzantine
contraption. The greatest fear of any teenager, whether or not acknowledged, is another
teenager. The irony here is that it was created by the youths, for the youths, and over time
became a "Frankenstein's Monster" of sorts.
As a simple human, one cannot deny the need of acceptance. To feel like a functioning
member of this "Frankenstein" is near the top of each student's priority list, above mere
earthly grades, above all else. There is an intense dread living in each human being, no
matter how old, of solitude. It is the bane of the teenage existence, not having a throng of
companions to gossip with. In today's culture, the "set yourself apart" craze drives some
out of their way to do so. The great irony in this is despite how desperately one tries to
look and be unique, there is always at least a handful of others he or she shall fit "hand in
glove" with. It is almost affirming one's existence and presence as a human being to be
accepted by a group, again, it is ensuring there is a place for the way worn hormonal
wanderer.
Once this group or "clique" is discovered, there is bestowed upon the newcomer an
invisible uniform. Some are looser than others, but it is never absent. There is a certain
code or system of conduct as plain as day, however it is so sly in its appearances it is
rarely noticed. Suddenly, when graciously accepted into this clan, one extinguishes habits
that strike others as peevish. One learns to hold his or her tongue and avoid certain
"taboos". This uniform also applies to how a person will generally act. Humans are fond
creatures, and subconsciously each believes "imitation is the greatest compliment". A
particular personage may be admired by the group, his or her friends making the slightest
sub conscious changes in manner. When judging a healthy friendship circle, what these
changes are and what they cause are key to determine if the clique must live or die in
one's life.
There are many benefits to this particular form of acceptance. There is a certain ecstasy
involved in the knowledge of placement in life. Not only are one's friends to affirm he or
she has a place, but to help them find it. Simple things done between friends, whether it
be a wholesome game of Monopoly or a simple trip to the cinema, have the amazing
ability to lift spirits and lighten burdens.
Although peer groups tend to be feared like a sort of monster at times, what they must be
at the core is a web. Each person is connected to another some way, and it is his or her
responsibility to interact with that person and give support, advice, and most of all mirth
according to the level of individual ability. Truly, peer groups are not simply a large label
or monarchy, but an essential part of a healthy life.
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