3.2.3.1.8 Social facilitation

Social facilitation

The positive influence of others on performance

Others present in Zajonc’s drive theory

Audience, co actors, competitors, social reinforcers

Co actors

Those doing the same task but not involved in direct competition

Social reinforcers

Those who have a direct influence (coach)

Dominant response

Behaviour most likely to occur when arousal increases

Experts dominant response

Well learnt/familiar with the skill so performed with ease without through despite pressure

Novice dominant response

Skills aren’t automatic so response is incorrect and performance declines

Evaluation apprehension

Perceived fear of being judged increases arousal and dominant response

Factors affecting performance

Skill level, personality, skill type, nature of audience, home advantage

Methods to prevent inhibition

Progressive exposure to crowds, over learning skills, somatic/cognitive strategies to improve focus, supportive coaching

Methods to increase facilitation

Performance goals, high quality feedback, encourage social support