What effect refers to the improvement in performance due to workers being given special attention?

The effect that describes the improvement in performance resulting from workers receiving special attention is known as the Hawthorne Effect. This phenomenon was identified during a series of studies conducted at the Hawthorne Works plant in the 1920s and 1930s, where researchers found that workers' productivity increased when they were observed and given attention, regardless of the specific changes made to their working conditions.

The key aspect of the Hawthorne Effect is that the mere act of paying attention to individuals can enhance their motivation and performance levels. This emphasizes the importance of social factors and may suggest that employees respond positively when they feel valued and recognized. It illustrates how psychological elements in the workplace—such as a sense of importance and involvement—can significantly affect behavior and output.

While the other terms like "Merit Effect," "Motivation Effect," and "Feedback Effect" may relate to aspects of performance improvement and motivation, they do not specifically capture the idea of enhanced performance due to special attention as clearly as the Hawthorne Effect does. The focus here is on the influence of attention and observation in enhancing worker productivity, which is central to the understanding of the Hawthorne Effect.