Which effect explains why people may feel more anxious in the presence of a crowd?

The phenomenon of social facilitation describes how the presence of others can influence an individual's performance and emotional state. When people are in a crowd, they often feel heightened levels of arousal and anxiety, particularly if they perceive themselves as being evaluated or judged by others. This effect stems from the idea that the presence of other individuals can increase physiological arousal, which may impact task performance and emotional responses.

Social facilitation can lead to improved performance on simple or well-practiced tasks, as the presence of an audience may boost confidence. Conversely, for tasks that are complex or not well rehearsed, this heightened state can lead to increased anxiety and potentially poorer performance. Thus, when individuals find themselves in a crowded space, they may experience a nervous response due to the pressure of being watched or evaluated, leading to feelings of anxiety. Understanding social facilitation helps clarify why crowded environments can create discomfort and an uptick in anxious feelings.