When we think of the word ‘herd’, we immediately picture a group of animals walking in a particular direction. Almost every time this herd or group is led by the caretaker. These animals receive the training of following the caretaker wherever he might take them.
A very famous phenomenon or the majority of herd tendencies is observed in ants. All the ants follow that particular ant. They all share a common goal of finding food. The discipline of following that particular line is important for the successful completion of the food search.
What is herd tendency in human behaviour?
Many social science researchers have found similar behaviour in human beings as well. In humans, we can observe the pattern that whenever a group of individuals shares a common goal, that group has a particular leader. All of the individuals in that particular group follow his or her school of thought.
The literal meaning of herd tendency in human behaviour is ‘the tendency of the people in a group to think and behave in ways that conform with others in the group rather than as individuals.’ This means that human beings tend to perform a particular behaviour to agree with other individuals rather than having a personal opinion about that subject.
Why is it important to tackle herd tendencies?
Herd tendency is not necessarily a beneficial behaviour. It can hamper the thought process of an individual. Humans are born with a unique tendency to think in their way and express themselves more effectively.
Being able to express your own opinion in one-on-one conversation and a group is a skill. Some psychologists have said that this skill comes with good practice. Herd tendency is important to tackle for the very reason that, if one wishes to appear independent in society, one needs to express their own opinion. Practising herd tendencies will not give one any different identity.
How can herd tendencies affect our lives?
Most of the time, herd behaviour is associated with irrationality since the actions that people make are based on emotions alone instead of giving the situation careful and rational thought. Hence, it limits the thought process of individuals. They cannot think of an alternative strategy for the given situation.
1. Effects of herd tendency in real life
Professionals have given their opinion that herd behaviour is observed when individuals face themselves in dangerous and panic situations. In these situations, individuals tend to observe and copy the behaviour of other individuals in the group. For example, if one finds himself/herself in a life-threatening situation, there is a high possibility that individuals tend to follow what the group is doing. They all run out together as one pack.
2. Herd behaviour in a crowd
Psychologists have coined a term called ‘group mind’. They say that in this type of mindset individuals may perform behaviours that they otherwise might not perform. Crowds that congregate due to a protest or grievance can involve a form of herding behaviour that can become violent.ย
3. Herd behaviour in making everyday decisions
Herd tendency can also influence one’s daily life decisions. For example, if a couple is out shopping. They have two shops in front of them. One shop is filled with people and the one next to it is empty. Now, if the couple is of herd tendency, there is a high chance that they will go to the shop with people filled in. The reason behind this can only be that since that shop is filled with people, they will follow that mob.
4. Effects of herd tendency on students
Today’s generation is living in a very competitive era. They are facing challenges and competition at every step of their career. Since their schooling, they have to prepare themselves to push their boundaries. Hence, these students are ready to do anything and everything to have success in life. The majority behind this behaviour is they tend to follow the steps of their parents. Parents are constantly behind in gaining money and establishing a luxurious life.
The ideology is built from the school itself that if you want to become successful you have to push yourself hard. However, an important element we all fail to look for is what is the student’s wish. Yes, it is absolutely important to expand one’s boundaries to achieve one’s ambitions.
Professionals have reported that individuals follow the pattern which has been set as an example in front of them by their parents, teachers, or what they observe in society. This is where unknowingly they start following the herding tendency instead of establishing one’s path.
5. Effects of herd tendency on student’s academic decisions
The true meaning of being independent for today’s generation means to take decisions on one’s own. Schools have started to take different classes under the name of ‘personality development’ to teach this skill to students. Students are given the freedom to express themselves in a non-judgemental environment.
However, if a student is in the practice of herd tendency, learning this skill can be challenging for him/her. Up until now, students are following the footsteps of others instead of thinking for themselves. A simple example of this can be as simple as, taking science as a career because other friends in that group have decided to opt for science.
How is this pattern of behaviour going to help that student to become not only successful but also happy in life? One needs to think for themselves first instead of going with a ‘group mind’.
Let us look at some stories based on herd tendency:
- Ashwin was in his final year of graduation. Before the exams, everybody was talking about what they are going to do post-graduation. Ashwin was still in a dilemma. His parents gave him the liberty to choose whatever he wanted to learn further. Hence, he was taking his time to think about it. However, the constant decision of doing an MBA after graduation influenced his mind to a larger portion. He also started to think that he was interested in doing an MBA. Hence, he chose to do so. However, later on, it did not interest him as much. He was only following what his friends had decided to do. He started to fall behind in his academics, which led him to frustration.
- Vaidehi was giving HSC board exams. She was interested in pursuing a career in music after her 12th standard exams. She expressed her choice to her parents. They gave her consent to do so. However, her other friends were interested in doing engineering as it promised regular income in the future. In one way or another other, it was their passion. Vaidehi did not follow the ‘group mind’ or ‘herd tendency’ in choosing her career. She was clear. This decision gave her mental stability and job satisfaction.
When we take a look at these stories, we can say that Vaidehi had a huge benefit over Ashwin by standing out with different opinions. It was a wise decision to not follow the trend. This is exactly what psychologists have been suggesting, just because there is a trend we do not have to necessarily follow it. We need to give it thought about how much it is useful for us.
Advantages and disadvantages of herd tendency
- Advantages of herd tendency
As mentioned above, whenever individuals find themselves in a life-threatening situation, all of the group tend to copy each other and escape from that situation as a group. In these kinds of scenarios, it can be logical to follow herd tendencies.
- Disadvantages of herd tendency
As we discussed earlier, it is not wise and preferable to follow herd tendencies when taking important or life-altering decisions. In these events, it is important to form one’s strategies, paths, and ways to follow. Following the herding tendency can limit the benefits of that decision.
How to break the herding tendency?
1. Probe your personal beliefs
We need to develop independent thoughts. Asking questions to oneself, considering the alternative options, and proceeding to make well-informed decisions can help to break the herding tendency. One needs to believe in the pace that one has for making decisions.
2. Evaluate and justify your options
If one has decided to take one option, it is important to stick to that particular choice. Just because others are going on a different path, does not mean that one needs to get distracted. It is important to justify and evaluate the decisions taken.
3. Large numbers of people can be wrong
It has been a human tendency to follow a large group of people since ancient times. It is a common belief that just because the majority of people are following a certain school of thought it can be right for society. However, there is a possibility that that particular group can be wrong. They can be following the wrong path. Hence, the very first step before following a group is to evaluate the options and philosophy of that group.
4. Reflect and delay taking action
Psychologists suggest focusing more on the process of decision-making. It can be tedious and time-consuming. But the important element is how concrete the decision is. Once we have made our decision we need to reflect on what the content is. If we feel the slightest of second thoughts about our decision, it is recommended to take a step back to reflect again. Have a thorough analysis of the decision. Even if there is a delay in action taken, it should be considered. There shouldn’t be any hesitation about taking action.
If we conclude, we can successfully say that herd tendencies can be dangerous most of the time. Considering the benefits of it, for students, it is not advisable. We need to teach the next generation to make independent decisions and to be confident. Herd tendency will only limit their creativity and imagination, which, as result can be a barrier to their growth.
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