behavioral contagion

the rapid copying of the activities of one or a few people by others in the vicinity, often with little analysis of the situation. For example, audience members who all applaud or rise to a standing ovation after an initial person does, regardless of whether they actually enjoyed the performance, are demonstrating behavioral contagion. Also called behavior contagion. See also emotional contagion; mass contagion; social contagion.

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Psychology term of the day

January 21st 2025

vivisection

n. dissection performed on a living animal for research or experimental purposes. Many scientists and researchers oppose the practice, questioning its scientific validity and necessity, and numerous others criticize it as inhumane and unethical. See also animal care and use; animal rights.