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process loss

in the social psychology of groups, any action, operation, or dynamic that prevents the group from reaching its full potential, such as reduced effort (social loafing), inadequate coordination of effort (coordination loss), poor communication, or ineffective leadership. See also collective effort model; Ringelmann effect; social interference; sucker effect.

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Psychology term of the day

January 3rd 2025

politeness

politeness

n. the process by which a speaker attempts to avoid harm to a listener’s public image or private self-concept through the use of nonthreatening or face-saving forms of speech. Politeness involves steering clear of content or forms of language that might embarrass listeners, make them feel uncomfortable, or lessen their self-respect. It also involves actively using language that maintains or enhances the listener’s dignity, prestige, and autonomy. For example, a speaker might preface the request for a favor by saying, “I’m sorry to bother you, and feel free to say no, but I wonder if you would. . . .” Politeness is one aspect of facework.