Counter-Movements

Counter-movements are organized collective efforts that arise in opposition to an existing social movement, seeking to block, reverse, or limit the changes it demands. They typically emerge when a movement’s gains threaten the interests, values, or status of another group, and they often mirror the tactics of their opponents, including protest, lobbying, litigation, and media campaigns. David Meyer and Suzanne Staggenborg argued that movements and counter-movements develop in a dynamic relationship, with each shaping the other’s strategies, framing, and opportunities. Mayer Zald and Bert Useem examined how movements and counter-movements interact within shared political arenas, while Charles Tilly’s analysis of contentious politics highlights the role of opportunity and repertoires of action. Kristin Luker’s study of abortion activists showed how opposing movements are grounded in contrasting worldviews and social positions. Susan Faludi’s account of backlash against feminism, and research on reactions to civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental regulation, illustrate the pattern. Doug McAdam’s political process model explains how shifts in political opportunity can encourage opposition as well as mobilization. Some scholars note that counter-movements can also energize movements by clarifying stakes. Counter-movements remain central to research on social change, polarization, political conflict, and collective action.