What does collective behavior refer to?

Collective behavior refers to spontaneous actions taken by a large group of people in response to a shared event or situation. This type of behavior often emerges without pre-established norms or rules, distinguishing it from organized or planned actions typical of formal groups. Examples of collective behavior include riots, crowds at concerts, or mass protests, where individuals come together in an unstructured way, driven by emotions, social influences, or immediate circumstances. This phenomenon highlights how individuals may change their behavior when they are part of a larger group, often resulting in behaviors that may not occur in solitary situations.

The other options outline different types of behaviors. Actions taken by individuals in isolation do not reflect the concept of collective behavior, as it emphasizes individual actions outside of group dynamics. Planned actions by organized groups are characteristic of formal organizations, rather than spontaneous collective behavior. Lastly, behavior patterns observed over time within communities describe a more stable and long-term set of social practices, rather than the immediate and fluid nature of collective behavior. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the emphasis is on spontaneity and large numbers in defining collective behavior.