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There are two different types of group behaviour;

1. Constructive (Positive) Group Behaviour.

2. Destructive (Negative) Group Behaviour.

1. Destructive Group Behaviour:

Negative/destructive groups use violence and destruction to achieve their objectives. Examples are ISIS, Boko Haram, Cult groups, etc.

Characteristics Of Destructive Group Behaviour:

Here are some of the characteristics of destructive group behaviour:

1. There is usually no respect for constituted authority and members often abide by their own rules and laws.

2. They attempt to protect the common interest of their members.

3. Mob action, which can be destructive: A mob is a large and disorderly crowd of people; especially one bent on riotous or destructive action. Mob action is when a group of people protest in a negative way. They usually don’t mind destroying properties and taking lives for reasons best known to them.

4. Their activities are carried out through levies, donations and support from other sources who like their negative behaviour.

5. They use harmful objects and weapons like sticks, guns, machetes, etc.

6. They sometimes use force, for example, kidnapping, to recruit new, unwilling members.

7. They have strong-minded leaders and followers, whose negative views are often difficult to change.

8. A lack of unity often leads to the group disbanding or scattering.

2. Constructive Or Positive Group Behaviour:

Positive/constructive group behaviours are those groups that act with maturity and a good attitude while trying to achieve their objectives. Their objectives are to influence people positively, develop the community and for the general welfare of their members and society at large.

Examples of groups that mean well for the nation are the National Association of Medical Doctors (NARD), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Market Women Associations (MWA), etc.

Characteristics of Positive Group Behaviours:

Here are some of the characteristics of constructive group behaviour:

1. Cooperation usually exists among members of this group because of the common belief they share, which usually results in development and progress.

2. They usually exist to promote the common good of the masses and are not financially motivated.

3. They love and care for their members and do their best to assist each other.

4. They are well-organized. Their leadership is carefully tested, selected and approved.

5. They usually engage in peaceful protests and avoid using harmful objects and weapons, hence avoiding and loss of properties and lives.

Characteristics of both Types of Group Behaviour:

a. Mass action may be spontaneous i.e. unplanned e.g. riot.

b. It can be destructive. In some situations, peaceful protests can turn violent.

c. There is the active participation of members in both mass action and communal labour.

d. In both mass action and communal labour, there are rules guiding the conduct of members.

e. Group behaviour is sometimes organized by the leadership of various groups based on the interests or needs of members.

f. Most communal services are for the benefit of society and not for individuals.

g. Comradeship: Members are always loyal to the group. 

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