Which psychological phenomenon suggests that being surrounded by others can enhance an individual's behavior?

Which psychological phenomenon suggests that being surrounded by others can enhance an individual's behavior?

• A. Social facilitation
• B. Group polarization
• C. Social loafing
• D. Social comparison

Answer: (A)

The phenomenon that indicates being surrounded by others can enhance an individual's behavior is social facilitation. This concept is grounded in the idea that the presence of others can lead to improved performance on tasks, particularly those that are well practiced or easy for an individual. The presence of an audience or bystanders can create a psychological arousal that energizes the performer, often resulting in better outcomes in tasks such as sports or public speaking. In contrast, other options present different dynamics. Group polarization involves the tendency of group members to shift toward more extreme positions after discussing an issue, which doesn’t necessarily pertain to individual performance enhancement. Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals put in less effort when working in a group compared to working alone, indicating a decrease in performance rather than an enhancement. Social comparison involves individuals assessing their own abilities and opinions by comparing themselves to others, which can influence self-esteem and motivation but does not inherently enhance behavior through the mere presence of others.

The phenomenon that indicates being surrounded by others can enhance an individual's behavior is social facilitation. This concept is grounded in the idea that the presence of others can lead to improved performance on tasks, particularly those that are well practiced or easy for an individual. The presence of an audience or bystanders can create a psychological arousal that energizes the performer, often resulting in better outcomes in tasks such as sports or public speaking.

In contrast, other options present different dynamics. Group polarization involves the tendency of group members to shift toward more extreme positions after discussing an issue, which doesn’t necessarily pertain to individual performance enhancement. Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals put in less effort when working in a group compared to working alone, indicating a decrease in performance rather than an enhancement. Social comparison involves individuals assessing their own abilities and opinions by comparing themselves to others, which can influence self-esteem and motivation but does not inherently enhance behavior through the mere presence of others.