Final answer:
Social loafing can occur in groups when each person in the group is not held accountable, leading to a reduction in individual output and a decrease in overall group performance. Factors that contribute to social loafing include the absence of individual evaluation, increased group size, and certain demographic factors. Strategies such as individual assessment and self-evaluations can help alleviate social loafing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social loafing can occur in groups when each person in the group is not held accountable because there is less pressure for individuals to perform well. When individual efforts are not evaluated, individuals may become less motivated to contribute their best efforts to the group task. This can lead to a reduction in individual output and a decrease in overall group performance.
For example, in a group project where everyone receives the same grade, some individuals may choose to do less work because they believe others will pick up the slack. This phenomenon is known as social loafing. In contrast, when individuals know their work will be assessed by a manager or instructor, or if they are required to complete self-evaluations, social loafing can be alleviated.
Research has shown that the likelihood of social loafing increases as the size of the group increases. College students have been found to be more likely to engage in social loafing, while individuals from collectivistic cultures and women tend to be less likely to engage in social loafing. By understanding the factors that contribute to social loafing, strategies can be developed to mitigate its effects in group settings.