“The surest way to corrupt a young person is to teach him to think more highly of those who think the same way than of those who think differently. » (Friedrich Nietzsche) In the novel The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, the three main characters Charlie, Sam and Patrick illustrate peer pressure through different perspectives. Charlie is exposed to new things that allow him to mature and grow. Sam is under pressure to live up to her reputation, even as she has begun to understand right from wrong. Patrick is forced to keep his sexual preferences private, which could later cause him harm. Peer pressure can help a person develop and grow as an individual. However, too much peer pressure can cause a person to lose sight of their identity. Charlie begins his high school journey as an independent individual. The novel presents Charlie as a thoughtful, observant, and different character who is trying to fit in. Throughout, Charlie meets two friends, Sam and Patrick, who help him come to terms with the aftermath of his exposure to drugs and alcohol. Charlie tried many drugs including marijuana, LSD, cigarettes and alcohol. “I ate the brownie, and it tasted a little weird, but it was still a brownie, so I always liked it. Since you're older, I think you know what kind of brownie it was. After thirty minutes, the room started to get away from me. » (Chbosky 35) The quote describes the first time Charlie used drugs when he was innocent and didn't understand why the brownie tasted strange. Later, Sam explained to him what was in the brownie. During his childhood, he was exposed to negative resources. These resources led him to constantly use them to relieve stress, cope with difficulties... middle of paper ... all beneficial and non-beneficial resources that only help him develop. Sam's high school life was full of ups and downs, but she has now learned from her behavior and her past. Now, when she goes to collage, she will start a new page of life that will only lead her to a better path. Patrick learns not to trust and fall in love with every person unless he is sure that he will not be betrayed or taken advantage of, but will be treated appropriately. So, throughout the characters' journey, they have faced obstacles that affect them in positive and negative ways. As the protagonist says: “But because things change and friends leave and life doesn't stop for anyone. » (Chbosky 145). Each of the characters begins a new journey and opens a new page in their life.Works CitedChbosky, Stephen. The perks of Being a Wallflower. New York: MTV/Gallery, 2012. Print.