Decision-Making and Refusal Skills
Decision-Making and Refusal Skills
This domain tests a repeatable decision process and concrete refusal strategies for pressure situations. The exam values scripts you can actually say, not just 'just say no.'
Core rules
- Decision model: stop, name the choice, list options, weigh risks and benefits against your values and goals, choose, act, then review.
- Risk assessment: consider immediate safety, health, legal, social, and long-term effects. A high-risk choice with a small short-term benefit is still high risk.
- Refusal skills: a clear 'no,' repeated as needed; an excuse or reason; leaving the situation; using a buddy; suggesting an alternative; broken-record technique; assertive eye contact and calm voice.
- You do not owe a detailed explanation. 'No' is a complete sentence. If pressure continues, escalate to a trusted adult.
- Peer pressure can be direct or indirect; even friends can pressure you. Planning an exit before an event makes refusal easier.
Worked example
At a party, someone offers a vape and says, 'Everyone does it.' Reasoning: the statement is pressure, not evidence. A workable script is, 'No thanks, I don't vape. I'm going to grab water.' Then move to a friend. If the person blocks or mocks, leave and tell an adult. The exam credit is for a specific refusal plus an exit plan, not for debating the offer.
Traps
- Using passive hints and hoping the person understands.
- Using aggression or insults, which escalates conflict.
- Believing one 'no' always ends pressure.
- Assuming peer pressure only comes from strangers.