In which of the following groups is social loafing least likely to occur?

• A. A group of close friends working together on a project they all care about
• B. A large group of strangers assigned to complete a simple task
• C. A team where individual contributions are not monitored
• D. A crowd participating in a public demonstration

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of social loafing: it refers to the tendency of individuals to exert less effort when working in a group compared to when working alone.
2. Identify factors that reduce social loafing, such as strong personal connections, high motivation, and individual accountability within the group.
3. Analyze each group option by considering these factors: close friends working on a meaningful project likely have strong bonds and motivation, reducing loafing.
4. Recognize that large groups of strangers, lack of monitoring, and crowds typically have weaker personal connections and less accountability, increasing the chance of social loafing.
5. Conclude that social loafing is least likely in the group where members are close friends working together on a project they all care about.