Compare and Contrast Theories Collective Behavior Emergent Norm Theory Added Perspective Assembling Perspective Essay

Total Length: 558 words ( 2 double-spaced pages)

Total Sources: 1

Page 1 of 2

Collective Behavior: Comparisons

Theories of Collective Behavior: Emergent-Norm Theory vs. Value-Added Perspective

Collective behavior, in basic terms, could be defined as a voluntary activity in which individuals engage. The behavior in this case is largely non-institutionalized. There are various theories that have been used over time to explain collective behavior. These include the emergent-norm theory, value-added perspective, and assembling perspective. In this text, I concern myself with two of these, i.e. The emergent-norm theory and the value-added perspective.

The emergent-norm theory according to Stolley (2005, p. 186) posits that "new norms develop (emerge) as events happen." The value added perspective, on the other hand, suggests that "people are likely to engage in social movements and other forms of collective behavior when society has certain characteristics" (Crawford and Novak, 2013, p. 455).

It should also be noted that while the emergent-norm theory largely focuses on the relevance of social norms in the behavior of crowds, the value-added perspective mainly concerns itself with the conditions necessary for the occurrence of collective behavior.

Stuck Writing Your "Compare and Contrast Theories Collective Behavior Emergent Norm Theory Added Perspective Assembling Perspective" Essay?

The latter therefore mainly assumes a functionalist perspective. Essentially, unlike the value-added perspective, the emergent-norm theory does not outline conditions necessary for the occurrence of collective behavior. Instead, it merely claims that individuals will form groups and come up with new guidelines whenever they find themselves in unfamiliar territory. With regard to the value-added perspective, the conditions necessary for collective behavior to take place are identified as "structural conduciveness, structural strain, growth and spread of a generalized belief, precipitating factors, mobilization for action, and the operation of social control" (Crawford and Novak, 2013, p. 455).

It is also important to note that unlike the emergent-norm theory, the….....

Show More ⇣


     Open the full completed essay and source list


OR

     Order a one-of-a-kind custom essay on this topic


sample essay writing service

Cite This Resource:

Latest APA Format (6th edition)

Copy Reference
"Compare And Contrast Theories Collective Behavior Emergent Norm Theory Added Perspective Assembling Perspective" (2014, February 25) Retrieved May 21, 2025, from
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/compare-contrast-theories-collective-behavior-183721

Latest MLA Format (8th edition)

Copy Reference
"Compare And Contrast Theories Collective Behavior Emergent Norm Theory Added Perspective Assembling Perspective" 25 February 2014. Web.21 May. 2025. <
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/compare-contrast-theories-collective-behavior-183721>

Latest Chicago Format (16th edition)

Copy Reference
"Compare And Contrast Theories Collective Behavior Emergent Norm Theory Added Perspective Assembling Perspective", 25 February 2014, Accessed.21 May. 2025,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/compare-contrast-theories-collective-behavior-183721