What is a key characteristic of social loafing?

Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals exert less effort when working as part of a group compared to when they are working alone. This occurs because individuals perceive their contribution to be less identifiable and may feel less personal responsibility in a collaborative environment. As a result, some members may reduce their overall level of effort, relying on others in the group to carry the workload.

This reduction in effort can stem from various factors, including the belief that their individual efforts will not significantly impact the group's success or a general tendency to feel less motivated in a collective setting. Understanding this characteristic is crucial because it can influence team dynamics and overall performance. Addressing social loafing often involves implementing strategies to enhance individual accountability, thereby encouraging each member to contribute their fair share.