What is social loafing?

Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals exert less effort when working in a group compared to when they work alone. This reduction in effort can occur for various reasons, such as a perceived diffusion of responsibility, where individuals feel less accountable for the outcome, or a belief that their contributions will not be recognized in a group setting. When people are part of a team, they may rely on others to carry the load, leading some individuals to not put forth their maximum effort.

This concept highlights the dynamics of group work and how the presence of others can influence individual motivation and productivity. Understanding social loafing is essential for improving group performance and ensuring that all members contribute equally to shared objectives.