Deindividuation

Synonyms

Anonymity; Behavior in groups; Situational behavior

Definition

Loss of individuality and a sense of anonymity that make individuals more likely to take part in antisocial behaviors.

Introduction

While an individual may display certain explicit attitudes, patterns of behavior, etc., when an individual holds a unique position within a group, a group can work successfully, and the ideals of the individual within the group may not show a significant shift as when they are alone. However, when an individual loses their sense of uniqueness or identity within a group, deindividuation occurs. Deindividuation is the loss of individual accountability within a group setting.

Deindividuation and Antisocial Behavior

Stanisław Jerzy Lec once said, “No snowflake in an avalanche ever feels responsible.” Once deindividuation occurs, these individuals are much more likely to commit antisocial behaviors and not always feel responsible for their actions. History has shown time and again the way...