In the context of social psychology, what effect do challenging team goals typically have on the occurrence of social loafing within groups?

• A. Challenging team goals have no significant effect on social loafing compared to easy goals.
• B. Challenging team goals tend to increase social loafing because individuals feel overwhelmed and withdraw effort.
• C. Challenging team goals cause all group members to contribute equally, eliminating social loafing entirely.
• D. Challenging team goals tend to decrease social loafing by increasing individual motivation and accountability.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of social loafing, which refers to the tendency of individuals to exert less effort when working in a group compared to when working alone.
2. Step 2: Recognize that team goals can influence motivation and effort levels within a group setting.
3. Step 3: Analyze how challenging team goals typically increase individual motivation because members perceive the task as important and demanding more effort.
4. Step 4: Consider that increased motivation and a sense of accountability reduce the likelihood of social loafing, as individuals feel more responsible for their contributions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that challenging team goals tend to decrease social loafing by fostering higher individual effort and engagement within the group.