PsychologySocial Influence and Group Processes

Which of the following is NOT a feature of mob behaviour?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 3

The correct answer is Option (3) → Being generally passive

Option (1) Polarisation in attention — A feature of mobs. Polarisation in attention means everyone's attention is fixed on the same point, so their actions move the same way.

Option (2) A definite sense of purpose — A feature of mobs. A mob has a definite sense of purpose; its members act in a common direction.

Option (3) Being generally passive — Not a feature of mobs. Being generally passive describes an audience, such as people watching a cricket match or a movie. A mob forms when an audience goes into a frenzy, so passivity is what it leaves behind.

Option (4) Homogeneity of thought and behaviour — A feature of mobs. Members of a mob think and act alike, and they also act on impulse.

NCERT (2026-27): “Introduction …
An audience is also a collection of people who have assembled for a special purpose, may be to watch a cricket match or a movie. Audiences are generally passive but sometimes they go into a frenzy and become mobs. In mobs, there is a definite sense of purpose. There is polarisation in attention, and actions of persons are in a common direction. Mob behaviour is characterised by homogeneity of thought and behaviour as well as impulsivity.”