Question

Social loafing in groups is more likely to occur when:

A. In a group, people feel less accountable, and therefore worry less about what others think
B. Group members may view their individual contributions as dispensable
C. Equal benefits are provided regardless of their contribution

Answer 1

Social loafing often happens when group members feel less accountability, view their input as unnecessary, and receive equal benefits regardless of effort. It is prevalent in college student groups but decreases when individual efforts are recognized or when tasks are complex and crucial to group success.

Step-by-step explanation:

Social loafing occurs in group settings when individuals exert less effort because they believe their contribution is not being individually evaluated. This phenomenon is more likely to occur when:

• People in a group feel less accountable and worry less about what others think.
• Group members consider their individual contributions as dispensable.
• Equal benefits are provided regardless of the contribution.

Studies highlight that social loafing is more prevalent among college students and can be reduced when individual contributions are recognized. Interestingly, when tasks are complex and individuals perceive that their effort is vital for the group's success, social loafing tends to decrease, and group performance can improve. Strategies like flocking to form groups based on similar schedules and motivations can help reduce social loafing by aligning individual members' goals with the group's objectives.