contagion theory

Contagion theory suggests that people's behaviors and emotions can spread through groups much like a contagious virus. When individuals are in close proximity or in a group setting, they tend to influence each other, often adopting similar attitudes or actions unconsciously. This process can lead to rapid collective shifts, such as heightened excitement, panic, or conformity. Essentially, behaviors and feelings spread from person to person, often amplifying the group's overall mood or actions, without individuals fully realizing they are being influenced.