Which of the following defines social loafing?

Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals contribute less effort to a task when they are part of a group compared to when they are working alone. This behavior typically arises because individuals may feel less accountable for the outcomes, believing that others in the group will pick up the slack or that their individual contributions will not be recognized.

This understanding underscores how group dynamics can sometimes lead to decreased motivation and productivity among individuals, particularly if they perceive that their efforts are not critical to the group's success. Recognizing this concept is important in organizational behavior, as it highlights the need for effective team management strategies that promote individual accountability and engagement within group contexts.

The other answer choices do not address the concept of social loafing accurately. Taking responsibility for task completion and group members working diligently imply positive engagement and accountability, while enhanced participation due to group dynamics suggests an increase in effort rather than a decrease. These responses reflect ideal group behaviors rather than the reality of social loafing.