Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
When individuals perform poorly, they exhibit a decrease in their performance or ability to complete a task effectively. This can occur due to various factors such as anxiety, distraction, or lack of confidence.
The tendency for individuals to perform better on simple tasks when in the presence of others.
Evaluation Apprehension: The fear or concern about being judged by others that can lead to decreased performance.
Distraction Conflict Theory: A theory that suggests that the presence of others creates a conflict between paying attention to them and focusing on the task at hand, leading to poorer performance.