Aspects of Collective Behavior: Fads, Mass Hysteria, and Riots | Behavior | MCAT | Khan Academy

Summary

This video script explores the concept of collective behavior in sociology, distinguishing it from group behavior by its time-limited, open participation, and weak norms. It outlines three types: fads, which are short-lived but widespread behaviors; mass hysteria, where groups experience shared delusions and anxiety; and riots, which involve large-scale deviant acts. Examples like the cinnamon challenge, weather-induced panic, and false anthrax alarms illustrate these behaviors, highlighting how group dynamics can lead to deviance outside societal norms.

Takeaways

• 👥 Collective behavior is distinct from group behavior due to differences in duration, social boundaries, and the clarity of norms.
• ⏳ Collective behavior is time-limited, involving short social interactions unlike groups which may socialize for extended periods.
• 🌐 There are no social boundaries in collective behavior, allowing anyone to participate freely, unlike groups which can be exclusive.
• 💭 Norms in collective behavior are weak and unclear, contrasting with the strong and well-defined norms within established groups.
• 🚫 Collective behavior often violates widely held societal norms and can sometimes be destructive.
• 🤹 Deindividuation, a social psychology concept, can encourage deviant acts within groups and collectives.
• 🔎 Sociologists have identified three basic types of collective behavior: fads, mass hysteria, and riots.
• 🍂 A fad is a fleeting behavior that gains quick popularity and then just as quickly loses it, influencing many but not aligned with normal behavior.
• 🌪️ Mass hysteria occurs when large groups experience shared delusions and anxiety, often triggered by rumors or perceived threats.
• 🛑 Riots involve large groups engaging in deviant behavior like vandalism and violence, often as an act of defiance or disapproval.
• 🌀 The causes of riots can be legitimate issues, but the group's response is often illegal and damaging to society.

Q & A

What is the definition of collective behavior in sociology?

Collective behavior in sociology refers to actions where large numbers of individuals rapidly and randomly behave in ways that do not reflect societal norms.

How does collective behavior differ from group behavior?

Collective behavior is typically time-limited with short social interactions and no social boundaries, whereas group behavior involves longer-term socialization and can be exclusive with membership requirements.

What are the characteristics of norms within collective behavior?

Norms within collective behavior are generally weak and murky, often violating widely held societal norms.

What role does deindividuation play in collective behavior?

Deindividuation, a concept from social psychology, encourages people within a collective to engage in acts they may consider deviant or wrong under normal circumstances.

What are the three basic types of collective behavior identified by sociologists?

The three basic types of collective behavior are fads, mass hysteria, and riots.

Can you describe a fad and provide an example?

A fad is a fleeting behavior that becomes incredibly popular very quickly and then loses popularity just as fast. An example is the cinnamon challenge, where people attempt to eat a large spoonful of ground cinnamon in under a minute and post videos online.

What is mass hysteria and how does it spread?

Mass hysteria involves large groups of people experiencing unmanageable delusions and anxiety simultaneously. It spreads rapidly through rumors and fear.

Can you explain mild mass hysteria and provide a real-world example?

Mild mass hysteria can occur in response to negative news or potential threats, such as severe weather forecasts that induce fear and anxiety in large groups, leading to irrational behavior.

What is meant by mass psychogenic illness or epidemic hysteria?

Mass psychogenic illness or epidemic hysteria is when large groups of individuals suddenly believe they have the same illness and experience similar physical symptoms despite no actual disease.

Describe a riot from a sociological perspective and its typical characteristics.

A riot, from a sociological perspective, is characterized by large groups of people suddenly engaging in deviant behavior like vandalism and violence. It is chaotic, often resulting in significant property damage and societal disapproval.

What are some common causes of riots according to the script?

Riots can be caused by perceived issues such as anger about the outcome of a sporting event, frustration with working or living conditions, or conflicts between races and religions.