Are you ditching your values to fit in? Todd Rose on avoiding peer pressure

Happy Place with Fearne Cotton

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Monday, 6 July 2026 - 1 hour 20 minutes

Smoking and going to that cool gig... think you left caving to peer pressure behind at high school? Scientist and social entrepreneur Todd Rose says we’re still desperately doing our best to fit in, whether we realise it or not!In this chat with Fearne, Todd explains that it feels important to hold the ‘correct’ opinions in the eyes of our social group. Why? As humans we’re wired to want to belong to a community, so often misrepresent our values for fear of upsetting others.The word ‘authenticity’ is thrown around a lot, but what does it really mean? Todd explains how to make sure your public self aligns with your public self so you’re not living in a state of confusion and anxiety.Plus, why not speaking your mind has very real implications on your physical health, and how self-silencing is affecting everything from your friendships to how you vote.Todd’s book, Collective Illusions, is out now.If you liked this episode of Happy Place, you might also like:Dr Julie SmithPatric GagneBreak free from people pleasing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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