What does deindividuation refer to?

Deindividuation refers to a psychological state characterized by a loss of self-awareness and personal identity, often occurring in group situations. When individuals become part of a crowd or a collective, they may experience diminished self-regulation and a reduced sense of personal accountability. This can lead to behavior that is more impulsive and less reflective of individual moral standards.

In such situations, people may feel anonymous and less constrained by social norms, which can result in actions that they might not typically engage in when alone. This phenomenon is often observed in various contexts, such as riots, concerts, or online interactions, where group dynamics can overshadow individual moral compass and lead to behavior that is out of character. Thus, understanding deindividuation is crucial for grasping how group settings can influence behavior significantly.