crowd psychology in disaster situations

Crowd psychology in disaster situations refers to how people behave collectively during emergencies. In times of crisis, individuals may experience heightened emotions like fear or panic, often leading to a loss of personal control. This can result in rapid group decision-making, where individuals look to others for cues on how to act. Behaviors such as flocking toward exits or seeking safety can be amplified by social influences, leading to chaotic movement or cooperation. Understanding these dynamics helps improve emergency responses and can aid in managing crowds more effectively during disasters.