Mob+Behavior


 * Definition**: Mob behavior can be defined as the unique behavioral characteristic in which people act differently in a large group than they usually would as an individual or in a smaller group. Mob behavior is also known as herd behavior because mob implies that the group is performing violent or aggressive acts, which isn’t always true. This behavior can apply in negative as well as positive situations. (What is Mob Mentality)

**Summary**: Mob behavior occurs because when people become part of a group they experience a loss of their individuality. When people lose their sense of self they become more likely to lose their individual sense of standard restraints and morals, but take on the restraints of the group. So while one person would never consider flipping over a car, if the group wants to flip a car, this person will feel more inclined to do so. They also feel that their responsibility is shared with the group, so they are not fully responsible for their actions, which gives people more of an inclination to participate in these strange behaviors (Donley, Megan). While Mob behavior is usually associated with aggressive or destructive behavior, it has been seen in defensive or protective circles. A great example of this is seen in herds of animals like cows, sheep, or even Elephants. The herd, or mob, all take on the behavior of protecting each other, so this mob behavior can be very beneficial to each other because they all look out and make sure to take care of each other.

**Connection to NHS/ Pop Culture**: Mob Behavior becomes very evident in sporting events/concerts. The crowd and the shared love for the music or for local sports teams compels the crowd to behave in ways that become only acceptable because the rest of the crowd is doing so. If no one else was singing along with a song or clapping for the home team, most people would not perform these behaviors. But since the rest of the crowd engages in these behaviors, it becomes acceptable for the rest of the crowd to do so,

**Watch the following Video and explain how the fans act with mob behavior:** media type="custom" key="13505238"

**Links for further reading:** []

http://headoflettuce.wordpress.com/2010/09/23/swarm-herd-and-mob-behavior-in-social-media/

http://www.helium.com/items/1786321-new-concepts-in-mob-behavior

**Bibliography**: Donley, Megan. “Examining he Mob Mentality.” //South University//. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Mar. 2012. .

Rivers, Christyl. “The psychology of mob behavior and crowd control.” //Helium//. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Mar. 2012. .

“What is Mob Mentality?” //WiseGeek//. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Mar. 2012. .