Motivation losses in task-performing groups: A social dilemma analysis.

Theory developed to account for behavior in social dilemmas—situations in which -

the rational pursuit of self-interest can lead to collective disaster—was applied to

the analysis of group motivation losses. Two group motivation loss effects demonstrated

in previous research, the social-loafing effect and the free-rider effect,

were shown to follow from social dilemma theories. An experiment was performed

to empirically demonstrate a third motivation loss effect, termed the sucker effect.

It was hypothesized that group members would reduce their efforts if they had a

capable partner.who free rode on their efforts, that is, who was capable of contributing

to the group but would not. This prediction was confirmed. The effect was particularly

strong in males. Potential remedies for such motivation losses were discussed.