What theory explains behavior in extreme social situations?

Emergent Norm Theory is essential for understanding how individuals behave in extreme social situations because it posits that in such circumstances, social norms can rapidly evolve or emerge. This theory suggests that when people find themselves in unfamiliar or crisis situations, existing social norms might no longer apply, leading to the development of new behaviors that are perceived as acceptable or necessary by the group.

An example of this can be seen in events such as protests, riots, or natural disasters, where traditional social guidelines may be challenged or disregarded. In these scenarios, individuals look to those around them to gauge how they should act, which can create a collective understanding of appropriate behavior. This can sometimes lead to behaviors that are not typical for individuals when they are in more structured situations, ultimately reflecting how group dynamics can influence personal actions.

This theory effectively explains why behaviors can become erratic or fundamentally shift when the social environment changes drastically, thereby enabling a deeper understanding of human actions in crisis or extreme social settings. Other theories may focus on aspects of individual behavior or static social influence, but Emergent Norm Theory specifically addresses the evolution of group behavior in response to unique social contexts.