What does "social loafing" refer to in group dynamics?

Social loafing refers to the tendency of individuals to exert less effort when they are part of a group compared to when they are working alone. This phenomenon occurs because individuals may feel less accountable for the group's outcome, believing that their contributions are less identifiable or that others will compensate for their lack of effort.

In group settings, particularly in tasks that are highly collaborative, some members may hide behind the efforts of others, leading to a reduction in overall productivity. This behavior highlights the complexities of motivation and accountability in group dynamics, as well as the potential downsides of group work if not managed properly.

Recognizing social loafing is crucial for leaders and teams as they can implement strategies to ensure each member feels responsible for their contributions, thus mitigating the risk of decreased effort in group activities.