Question 5

The tendency for individuals to expend less effort when working collectively than when working individually

Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals contribute less effort to a group task than they would if working alone. This behavior often arises in team settings where personal accountability is diminished.

A) The tendency for individuals to expend less effort when working collectively than when working individually

This option accurately defines social loafing. It captures the essence of the concept, highlighting how individuals may reduce their effort in a group context due to perceived diffusion of responsibility.

B) The expectation that others will not act opportunistically when working collectively

This option does not relate to social loafing. Instead, it describes a social contract or trust among group members, which is contrary to the idea of individuals reducing their effort in a collective setting.

C) The tendency for individuals to work harder when working collectively than when working individually

This option is incorrect as it directly contradicts the definition of social loafing. It suggests an increase in effort in group environments, which is the opposite of what social loafing entails.

D) A process by which individuals attempt to control the impression others form of them

While this option speaks to social impression management, it does not pertain to social loafing. Social loafing is focused on effort and contributions in group tasks, not on how individuals wish to be perceived by others.

Conclusion

The correct answer, option A, effectively defines social loafing by illustrating the decrease in individual effort when working in groups. The other options either misrepresent the concept or discuss unrelated phenomena, reinforcing that A is the only accurate choice in this context. Understanding social loafing is crucial for enhancing team performance and accountability.