What does the term 'social facilitation' refer to in group dynamics?

The term 'social facilitation' refers to the phenomenon whereby individuals perform better on tasks when they are in the presence of others, compared to when they are alone. This effect is particularly prominent with tasks that are well-practiced or simple; the presence of an audience or peers can enhance motivation and increase arousal, leading to improved performance. In contrast, more complex or unfamiliar tasks may be hindered by the added pressure of an audience, which aligns closely with the concept of social facilitation.

This understanding highlights the importance of social context in shaping behavior and performance within groups, emphasizing how social dynamics can function to enhance individual contributions to collective efforts. While other options introduce relevant ideas, they do not accurately embody the core concept of social facilitation as it is understood in psychology and group dynamics.