What is the best reason that might explain changes in an individual's participation in a group?

Changes in an individual's participation in a group can often be best understood through the lens of evolving interests. When people initially join groups, they are usually motivated by specific interests or goals that align with the group's activities or objectives. Over time, these interests may shift due to personal development, exposure to new ideas, or changes in individual circumstances.

For example, a person may join a volunteering group out of a desire to engage in community service. However, if that individual's priorities or passions shift—perhaps moving towards a new career, family obligations, or other hobbies—they may find themselves less connected to the group's activities, thus reducing their participation. This change is a natural part of personal growth and self-discovery and highlights the importance of aligning group goals with the interests of its members to maintain engagement.

In contrast, while peer pressure, leadership issues, and workload demands can certainly affect participation, they are often context-dependent and may not reflect the individual's genuine interest, which is a more fundamental driver of long-term engagement in group activities.