What might increase performance in the presence of others?

• A. Social inhibition
• B. Social interaction
• C. Social facilitation
• D. Social comparison

Answer: (C)

The concept of social facilitation refers to the tendency for individuals to perform better on tasks when in the presence of others, especially if the tasks are well-practiced or easy for them. This phenomenon occurs due to increased arousal and motivation that social situations can create. The presence of an audience can lead to a heightened sense of alertness, encouraging individuals to focus and perform efficiently.

In particular, social facilitation is noted in various settings, from sports to public speaking, where the presence of others acts as a motivator that can improve an individual's performance. This effect is rooted in both psychological and physiological responses, as the presence of others can trigger competitive instincts and increase adrenaline levels, enhancing overall performance.

In contrast, social inhibition, social interaction, and social comparison do not primarily describe the boosting of performance due to the mere presence of others. Social inhibition typically refers to worsened performance in social settings, particularly when individuals are anxious or uncertain. Social interaction pertains to the engagement and communication between people rather than performance outcomes, while social comparison involves evaluating one’s own abilities or opinions against those of others, which may not necessarily lead to improved performance.