LEARNING OBJECTIVE

To describe the concept of herd mentality, identify the positives and negatives of being part of a group, and recognize when an individual decision is necessary

HEALTH ED STANDARD

Demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills to enhance health (NHES 5)

KEY VOCAB

 traits, herd mentality, evolutionary, susceptible, instincts

Lesson Plan: Are You Following the Herd?

Teens are programmed to make decisions based on the behavior of those around them. Knowing the science behind “herd mentality” can help them understand the importance of making choices on their own. 

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

How can I make decisions for myself, no matter what others are doing? 

 CLOSE-READING QUESTIONS

  1. What is herd mentality? It’s the idea that being part of a group—whether that’s your closest friends or a crew of strangers—influences your behavior. 
  2. According to the article, what’s the most dangerous form of peer pressure? It’s the subtle kind you don’t notice. If you think everyone else is doing something, you’re more likely to do it as well. 
  3. What is diffusion of responsibility? It’s when you get caught up in the energy of a crowd and think your actions can’t be traced back to you. 
  4. What should you do if you find yourself feeling a strong drive to go along with the crowd at a party? Take five seconds to yourself and go outside or into the bathroom, where you can check in with your instincts. Ask yourself, “Would I be doing this if no one else was?”

Like What You See?

Then you'll love Choices, our health, social-emotional learning, and life-skills magazine for grades 7–12 

 CRITICAL-THINKING QUESTIONS

  1. In the article, Sara talks about the strange snack trends in her friend group. What are some trends that have popped up in your school, and how did they get started? Answers will vary. 
  2. Teens who study in groups tend to do better. Why do you think that is? Possible answer: When everyone is working toward the same goal, it’s easier to stay focused. Plus, friends can help you on problems you get stuck on, and explaining concepts to others may help you better understand the subject. 
  3. What is social contagion, and how can you use it to spread positivity in your school? Possible answer: It’s the idea that moods can spread through a group. You can spread positivity by complimenting others and performing random acts of kindness.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

EXTENSION ACTIVITY

NHES 5

How much of a role does herd mentality play at your school? In this activity, students will brainstorm as a class to come up with a silly trend to start (like, say, mismatched socks). Then, they’ll see how quickly they can get it to spread throughout the school. Our SOCIAL EXPERIMENT worksheet will help them document and analyze their findings.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

NHES 8, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.7

The social cure theory says that the force of group dynamics can be wielded to change lives. It’s important that students realize how powerful social media can be in this capacity. Using the SOCIAL MEDIA CURE activity sheet, they’ll find an example (like the Ice Bucket Challenge) to analyze and share with the rest of the class. 

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