Final answer:
An essential function of effective group members is equitable contribution to avoid 'social loafing' and the 'free rider problem.' Individual freedom within the group allows personal autonomy while maintaining group cohesion. The failure to perform these functions can lead to poor group performance and morale.
Step-by-step explanation:
Functions and Responsibilties in Group Dynamics
One critical function that effective group members perform is contributing equitably to the group's work. This means that each member should actively participate, share ideas, and take on a fair share of the responsibilities. A negative outcome of failing to perform this function is a phenomenon known as social loafing, where individuals exert less effort because their personal performance is not evaluated separately. This can lead to a decline in overall group performance, especially on less complex tasks.
The notion of individual freedom within a group is important to acknowledge. While each member should perform their role, there needs to be a balance betwen group cohesion and personal autonomy. If individuals feel too constrained or micromanaged, it could impair creativity and motivation, leading to a lack of innovation and enthusiasm within the team.
Without active and equitable participation, groups face the risk of the free rider problem. This occurs when members accept the benefit of the group’s work without contributing to its achievement, which can result in low morale among those who are contributing and potentially a failed group project. Concerning collective action, this is a larger scale issue where the failure to contribute leads to inefficiencies and can hinder the success of organizations, including governmental and private entities.