Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Is a picket line considered to be a cohesive crowd?

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on circumstances

4. Only during protests

The correct answer is: False

A picket line is not considered a cohesive crowd primarily because its members may not share a unified purpose beyond the immediate action of picketing. Unlike a cohesive crowd, where individuals share a strong identity and common goal, a picket line often consists of individuals who may have differing motivations for participating. They may be protesting for various reasons, or their dedication to the cause may vary. In a cohesive crowd, individuals actively engage with one another, often displaying solidarity and a strong collective focus. Conversely, while there is a collective action occurring in a picket line, the individuals may maintain more personal agendas, leading to a lack of the deep connection that defines cohesive crowds. Additionally, the nature of participation in a picket line can fluctuate based on external factors, such as the context of the protest or the level of support from the general public, further emphasizing the lack of cohesion among participants. This distinction helps clarify why the assertion that a picket line represents a cohesive crowd is inaccurate.