Whenever you feel intimidated into going along with a new fad, a new idea that has gained wide acceptance, or the latest “in” thing, you are getting yourself into the dreaded conformity trap.

When you do something just because “everybody else is doing it,” your action is motivated by the fear of standing apart from the herd. As every concerned parent knows, teenagers are especially prone to such misguided actions. But, fortunately, you are not a teenager — and, best of all, you have free will.