What is a "social movement"?

A "social movement" is defined as a collective effort to promote or resist social change, making option B the most accurate description. Social movements typically involve groups of people who come together to advocate for specific goals, whether that be addressing social injustices, advocating for environmental protection, or pursuing political reforms. These movements rely on collaboration and shared objectives among participants, seeking to influence public opinion, policy, or societal norms through various forms of action, such as protests, advocacy, or grassroots organizing.

In distinguishing this concept from the other choices, the study of social behaviors relates to sociology as a discipline but does not capture the essence of collective action inherent in social movements. An organization focused on political issues might play a role in a social movement but does not encompass the broader and more diverse nature of activism and mobilization across multiple sectors. Lastly, an individual action for change fails to reflect the collective aspect that is central to social movements, where the power lies in the collaboration and solidarity of many people working toward a common cause.