Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

contagion-effect

noun

/kənˈteɪ.dʒən ɪˌfɛkt/

Definition

The contagion effect refers to the phenomenon where behaviors, emotions, or conditions spread from one individual or group to others, similar to how a disease spreads.

Examples

The contagion effect of fear during a financial crisis can lead to widespread panic selling.
Social media can amplify the contagion effect, spreading trends or misinformation quickly.
The contagion effect in psychology illustrates how emotions can be caught from others, such as laughter or sadness.

Meaning

It explains how certain influences, such as attitudes or financial trends, can be transmitted among people, often leading to collective behaviors or reactions.