In social psychology, why is it often recommended to present praise privately rather than publicly?

• A. Public praise always increases motivation for everyone in the group.
• B. Presenting praise privately discourages individuals from repeating positive behaviors.
• C. Private praise can reduce feelings of embarrassment or jealousy among peers, promoting a more positive group dynamic.
• D. Private praise is less effective because individuals prefer public recognition.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of praise in social psychology, which involves how individuals perceive and react to recognition within a group setting.
2. Step 2: Recognize that public praise can sometimes lead to unintended negative effects, such as embarrassment for the person being praised or jealousy among other group members.
3. Step 3: Consider that private praise helps to minimize these negative social emotions by providing recognition in a more personal and less conspicuous way.
4. Step 4: Analyze how reducing embarrassment and jealousy through private praise can promote a more positive and supportive group dynamic, encouraging continued positive behavior without social discomfort.
5. Step 5: Conclude that private praise is often recommended because it balances motivation with social harmony, making it more effective in many social psychology contexts.