The Vegetarian Life: How to Be a Veggie
in a Meat-Eating World

EXCERPT: Peers

Teens care an enormous amount about what their friends and classmates think of them. Even the most independent and free-thinking adolescent wants the respect of his or her peers; it is simply human nature. Most teens like to conform, blend in, and not make any waves. Until recently, most people saw vegetarianism as a fringe movement, one that attracted people who “hugged trees and ate loads of granola.” These stereotypes have never been true, as you have already read, but they persisted until recently in American high schools and colleges. Now, as more and more teens are becoming vegetarians, attitudes are changing, but do not be surprised if you are harassed by your peers for choosing a meatless diet.