Social Loafing and Expectancy-Value Theory

Abstract

Most people who have worked in group settings have likely had the experience that the input of group members are not equal, and that they are working harder or are contributing more to the group effort than are other group members. To the extent that group members share equally in the rewards generated by the group, unequal contributions can create considerable frustration and annoyance. In response, people leave or restructure such groups, or they adjust their contributions in an attempt to make inputs more equitable. On the other hand, some more insightful people may occasionally realize, perhaps with some chagrin, that they at times have been on the other end of the stick, contributing less to the group (but enjoying no less of the benefits) than their fellow group members. Although the inequity in contributions among group members and the negative feelings that result are undoubtedly commonplace and would seem to lead people to avoid working in groups, the fact remains that many human endeavors cannot be accomplished individually, requiring instead that people combine their efforts towards a common goal. Building a bridge, producing a play or movie, playing a team sport such as football or baseball, and completing a group project such as writing a group paper, all require that individuals pool their efforts to produce the desired outcome.