What is group cohesion?

Group cohesion, also known as social cohesion, refers to the strength of the bonds that connect members of a group to each other and to the group as a whole. It's essentially the "glue" that holds a group together.

What are the main features of group cohesion?

• Social Relations: Members feel a sense of camaraderie, respect, and trust towards each other.
• Task Relations: There's a shared commitment to achieving the group's goals and working effectively together.
• Perceived Unity: Members feel a sense of belonging and shared identity as part of the group.
• Emotions: Positive emotions like trust, liking, and a sense of community contribute to group cohesion.

Why is group cohesion important?

Group cohesion is important for several reasons:

• Improved Performance: Cohesive groups work better together, communicate more effectively, and are more likely to achieve their goals.
• Increased Motivation: Members feel a sense of belonging and shared purpose, which can boost motivation and commitment.
• Enhanced Satisfaction: Positive social interactions and a sense of community contribute to member satisfaction within the group.
• Greater Resilience: Cohesive groups can better weather challenges and conflicts because of the strong bonds between members.

How is group cohesion applied in practice?

• Team Building Activities: Engaging in fun activities that promote collaboration and communication can build group cohesion.
• Shared Goals and Values: Having a clear purpose and understanding of shared values can unite a group.
• Effective Leadership: Leaders who foster trust, communication, and respect can create a more cohesive group environment.
• Open Communication: Encouraging open communication and valuing diverse perspectives strengthens the group.

Practical example

Imagine a sports team that has a strong sense of camaraderie on and off the field. The players trust each other, communicate effectively, and are all committed to winning. This strong group cohesion likely translates to better performance on the court/field.

Critical comments

• Groupthink: Cohesive groups can sometimes be susceptible to groupthink, where the desire for consensus overrides critical thinking.
• Exclusion: A strong focus on in-group cohesion can lead to the exclusion of outsiders.
• Unequal Power Dynamics: Cohesion can be fragile if there are unequal power dynamics or conflicts within the group.