Social Change and Collective Behavior
When Society Changes
Social change
Social change refers to major shifts in culture, institutions, or social relationships over time. Examples include urbanization, technology, migration, and changes in family life.
Collective behavior
Collective behavior is spontaneous action by many people, such as crowds, protests, rumors, or panics. It is often less structured than normal group activity.
Social change vs. collective behavior
Social change
- Long-term transformation
- Affects institutions and culture
Collective behavior
- Short-term group action
- Often spontaneous and fluid
Which is an example of social change?
Urbanization is a broad, long-term shift in society.
Correct answer: A society moving from farms to cities
What is collective behavior?
It includes crowds, rumors, and panics.
Correct answer: Spontaneous action by many people.
How sociologists study change
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1
Identify the change or event.
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2
Compare before and after patterns.
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3
Look at causes and consequences.
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4
Consider who benefits and who is harmed.