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Writer's pictureSam Wilks

Understanding Crowd Behaviour




In the realm of social behaviour, the dynamics of crowds present an intriguing subject that merits a thorough examination. The nature of crowds, the motivations driving them, and the subsequent behaviour patterns they exhibit are essential factors in designing effective security measures. The classification of crowds into various types provides a framework for understanding their behaviour and responding appropriately. This article delves into the intricacies of crowd behaviour, exploring the different types of crowds and offering real-world examples to illustrate these concepts.


Acquisitive crowds are characterised by their collective desire to obtain something of value. These crowds often form in scenarios where resources are scarce or highly sought after. A prime example of an acquisitive crowd is the frenzy observed during Black Friday sales. Shoppers, driven by the promise of significant discounts, gather in large numbers, each individual focused on securing the best deals for themselves. The lack of a unified leader and the individualistic nature of the crowd members often result in chaotic scenes, as seen in numerous viral videos of shoppers pushing, shoving, and even fighting over items.


Another illustration of an acquisitive crowd can be found at auction sales. The desire to acquire unique or priceless items is what drives people in this situation. Each participant operates independently, driven by personal interests, which can sometimes lead to competitive and aggressive behaviour, especially when bids reach high stakes.


Expressive crowds gather to express collective emotions, whether they be joy, anger, or solidarity. Political rallies and conventions are quintessential examples of expressive crowds. These gatherings are usually well-organised, with attendees united by a common cause or sentiment. However, the potential for disruption exists when individuals within the crowd feel that their expressions are being suppressed. A notable example is the Women's March that took place in 2017. While the march was largely peaceful and organised, instances of tension arose when participants encountered counter-protesters or perceived threats to their ability to express their views.


Similarly, sports fans constitute expressive crowds that can quickly shift from exuberance to hostility. Consider the Vancouver Stanley Cup riot, where a jubilant crowd celebrating a potential win turned into a hostile mob following a loss. The emotional investment in the event, coupled with the disappointment of the outcome, transformed an otherwise festive atmosphere into one of chaos and violence.


A common interest in watching an event, such as a sporting event, concert, or parade, draws spectator crowds together. Initially, these crowds are typically well-behaved and good-humoured. However, the nature of the event can rapidly stir emotions, leading to unpredictable behaviour. The Hillsborough disaster of 1989 is a tragic example of how a spectator crowd can turn deadly. Fans who gathered to watch a football match ended up in a fatal crush due to overcrowding and poor crowd management. The initial excitement and anticipation quickly gave way to panic and chaos, resulting in a significant loss of life.


In a different vein, parades and festivals, while generally positive and celebratory, can also become unruly. The Mardi Gras celebrations in Sydney, for instance, are known for their lively and exuberant atmosphere. However, the combination of alcohol, large crowds, and heightened emotions often leads to incidents of violence and disorder at the end of the celebration.


Anger, hatred, or frustration are the motivating factors behind hostile crowds, and they frequently engage in conflict to achieve their objectives. Political demonstrations and labour strikes frequently fall into this category. The 2019 protests in Hong Kong exemplified a hostile crowd, where demonstrators clashed with law enforcement over political grievances. The protests, marked by their intensity and high degree of hostility, saw leaders emerge to direct the actions of the crowd, further intensifying the confrontations.


Another example is the violence that erupted during the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Triggered by the acquittal of police officers involved in the beating of Rodney King, the riots were characterised by widespread looting, arson, and clashes with police. The high levels of anger and frustration among the participants fueled the intensity and duration of the violence.


Escape (Panic) crowds form in response to a perceived threat, with individuals driven by a collective desire to flee from danger. These crowds are leaderless and highly disorganised, united only by their shared motivation to escape. The 2003 Station nightclub fire in Rhode Island provides a grim illustration of an escape crowd. As the fire broke out during a concert, panic ensued, and attendees rushed towards the exits, resulting in a deadly stampede. The lack of organisation and the overwhelming fear created a chaotic and dangerous situation, exacerbating the tragedy. I show footage of this particular event in my security training course to detail the importance of crowd control in a disastrous situation.


Similarly, natural disasters often give rise to escape crowds. In the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, countless individuals sought to flee the rising waters and devastation. The urgency to escape led to congested roads, overcrowded shelters, and further complications in the rescue efforts.


Crowd behaviour is a complex phenomenon that depends on a number of variables, such as the crowd's goal, the members' emotions, and the environment they live in. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for implementing effective security measures and ensuring public safety. By recognising the different types of crowds—acquisitive, expressive, spectator, hostile, and escape (panic)—authorities and security professionals can better anticipate potential challenges and respond appropriately to maintain order and protect individuals.


In examining crowd behaviour, real-world examples highlight the diversity and unpredictability of human actions within groups. From the frenzy of Black Friday shoppers to the tragic consequences of escape crowds, these examples underscore the importance of preparation, organisation, and a nuanced understanding of social behaviour. By applying these insights, we can strive to create safer and more controlled environments in which crowds gather.


From the author.


The opinions and statements are those of Sam Wilks and do not necessarily represent whom Sam Consults or contracts to. Sam Wilks is a skilled and experienced Security Consultant with almost 3 decades of expertise in the fields of Real estate, Security, and the hospitality/gaming industry. His knowledge and practical experience have made him a valuable asset to many organizations looking to enhance their security measures and provide a safe and secure environment for their clients and staff.

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