Final answer:
A peer group is a social group made up of people who are similar in age and social status and who share interests. Peer groups play a significant role in socialization, especially during adolescence, as individuals develop their own identity. Peer groups can influence how individuals think about issues, including politics, but not everyone is influenced by peer pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
A peer group is a social group made up of people who are similar in age and social status and who share interests. Peer group socialization begins in the earliest years, such as when kids on a playground teach younger children the norms about taking turns or how to play a game. As children grow into teenagers, peer groups become even more important as they start developing an identity separate from their parents and exert independence. Peer groups provide opportunities for socialization and can influence how individuals think about issues, including politics. They can reinforce existing beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors rather than change them. However, not all members of social groups are influenced by peer pressure. Some people may choose not to join certain groups, even if they share similar interests or views, because they don't want to court conflict or associate with controversial or unpopular opinions.