Final answer:
It is false that most team members are happier and perform better with low performance expectations. Effective teamwork requires appropriate and motivating performance expectations to minimize social loafing and maximize individual contributions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Most team members are happier and perform better with low performance expectations' is generally false. Research on the team halo effect suggests that when teams have low expectations set upon them, members might engage in 'social loafing' where individual efforts decrease because performance is not evaluated separately from the group. However, the team halo effect can also lead to overestimating a team's ability, making it seem like the team performs better than it does. Moreover, complex and challenging tasks often result in better performance in groups because they can stimulate individual contributions and reduce social loafing.
Therefore, to foster effective teamwork and satisfaction among team members, it's crucial to set appropriate and motivating performance expectations and evaluate individual contributions. When members are aware that their performance is valued and assessed, they are likely to contribute more effectively. Furthermore, clear expectations and evaluations can counteract any negative aspects of the team halo effect and avoid a decline in the group's collective grade due to lack of incentive.