Sociologists refer to a form of dispersed collective behavior that occurs when a large number of people react with strong emotions and self-destructive behavior to a real or perceived threat as mass hysteria or __________.
A) gossip
B) rumor
C) a mass mob
D) panic

Question

Sociologists refer to a form of dispersed collective behavior that occurs when a large number of people react with strong emotions and self-destructive behavior to a real or perceived threat as mass hysteria or __________.
A) ​gossip
B) ​rumor
C) ​a mass mob
D) ​panic

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The description given fits the definition of panic. Mass hysteria may also involve strong emotions and self-destructive behavior, but it is typically not in response to a specific threat. Rumor and gossip may contribute to the spread of panic or mass hysteria, but they do not define the phenomena themselves. "A mass mob" is not a sociological term and does not accurately describe the behavior in question.

Sociologists Refer to a Form of Dispersed Collective Behavior That