Herd mentality refers to the tendency of individuals to adopt the behaviors, beliefs, or actions of a larger group. This phenomenon often occurs in social settings where people feel pressure to conform, leading them to make decisions they might not consider if acting alone. It can be seen in various contexts, such as stock market trends, where investors follow the crowd, or in social media movements, where popular opinions can quickly sway public sentiment. This behavior can have both positive and negative effects. On one hand, it can foster a sense of community and shared purpose, as seen in protests or charity events. On the other hand, it can lead to poor decision-making, as individuals may ignore their own judgment in favor of the group's choices, resulting in actions that are not well thought out.