What is described as any aspect of group interaction that inhibits effective problem solving?

Process loss refers to any hindrance or obstruction within a group's functioning that negatively affects its ability to solve problems effectively. This concept highlights how collaboration, while potentially beneficial, can sometimes lead to decreased performance due to various factors, such as miscommunication, differing opinions, or a lack of coordination.

In a group setting, process loss can occur for numerous reasons, like individuals holding back ideas or not effectively communicating their thoughts, leading to a diluted pooling of information. This contrasts with concepts like groupthink, which emphasizes a consensus-driven decision-making process that may overlook critical perspectives, or group polarization, where discussions amplify initial leanings, potentially skewing judgment rather than facilitating balanced solutions. Transactive memory involves the division of cognitive labor within a group, rather than focusing on losses in effectiveness, which is the essence of process loss.

Understanding process loss is crucial in social psychology as it can inform strategies for improving group interactions, ensuring that members can contribute fully to problem-solving tasks.