By: Jordyn Fierro

In schools today, fitting in often matters more to students than being themselves

One student posts a trend on TikTok, and by lunchtime, half the school is doing it, wearing the same outfit, using the same phrases acting the same way.

Its not just TikTok trends. In classrooms and hallways, students often agree with popular opinions, dress alike, or stay silent to avoid standing out. These small choices add up, showing how strong the need to belong really is.

In uncertain situations, people don’t rely solely on their own judgement-they look to the behavior of others to decide what is correct, often without realizing it.

Many students follow what their peers are doing, especially in uncertain situations. As a study called Psychology Today explains, “When we are uncertain looking to others can provide valuable information about what is correct or appropriate behavior,” Showing how peer influence can shape everyday decisions at school.

In today’s generation, fitting in can be sometimes more important than being different and unique. Trends social expectations, and influence shape the way students speak, style, and behave.

“Many students want to fit in and do whatever others are doing instead for thinking of themselves,” AP Psychology and AVID teacher Ms. Jordan said. “I notice this most in social situations because students are often afraid of what others might think and fear not fitting in. I would encourage students to focus on their own goals and future instead of following the crowd.”

Although fitting in may help students feel accepted, constantly following others can make it difficult for teenagers to develop confidence and individuality.

Another study called Cornell University says, “Because we are not one hundred percent confident in our decisions, we look for affirmation from others. When a large group agrees on something, people begin to assume the group must be correct, even when they originally thought differently.”

This shows how students often rely on the opinions of others to feel confident in their own decisions.

In another article called ASU News it says, “The unique circumstances that allowed for people to resist the urge to flee from something dangerous alongside a large group, and instead run towards the danger with the intent to help other people.”

Although crowds often move together, some people choose to think for themselves and help others instead of simply fleeing with the group.

In the end, following the crowd may seem easier, but true confidence comes from making decisions yourself. Even when standing alone feels embarrassing.

Jordyn Fierro
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