Margaret M. Chin and Syed Ali -The Peer Effect

Roosevelt House is pleased to present a discussion of the new book by leading sociologists and . In this important and eye-opening analysis, Chin and Ali illuminate the power of peers, and peer culture, to shape individual behavior and future success. The authors will be in conversation with award-winning journalist and author . For decades, parents across America have asked their kids, “If your friend jumped off a bridge, would you?” As parents well know—and as so powerfully illustrates—peers have a tremendous impact on who their kids are and who they will become as adults. Through a fascinating and often humorous narrative, Ali and Chin show how highly motivated students can create a culture of influence to achieve success in learning, and in admission to elite colleges, as well as the many other ways that peers influence one another beyond school performance—from “hookup culture” to school bullying and youth suicide…