Group Cohesion: Definition
The solidarity, unity, integrity of a group
(Forsyth, 2014)
Group Cohesion: Sources
A group’s cohesiveness derives on a number of
sources, such as attraction, commitment to a
task, etc.
(Forsyth, 2014)
• Equifinality: Potential to reach an end state through
many paths
• Multifinality: Reaching different endings from the same
starting conditions
(Forsyth, 2014)
Sources of Group Cohesion
(Forsyth, 2014, p. 144)
“Not-So-Positive”
Consequences
Positive
Consequences
Enhanced member
satisfaction
Reduced tension, stress
Higher group
engagement
Reduced turnover
Longer duration of
membership
Intensification of
emotional and social
processes
Increased influence,
pressure
Hostility
Groupthink
(Forsyth, 2014)
Do Cohesive Groups Outperform Less
Cohesive Groups?
(Adapted by Forsyth from Mullen & Copper, 1994; Beal et al., 2003; Gully et al., 1995)
.51
Social
cohesion
.17
.,17
Unity
(Group Pride)
Task Cohesion
(teamwork)
.24
.25
.25
Cohesion
Performance
Task Interdependence
Norms are also critically important
(Forsyth, 2014, p. 156)
Groups with norms
that stress
productivity
Productivity
Productivity of
cohesive groups
depends on norms
of group: if group
norms do not
support hard work,
then cohesive
groups will be
unproductive!
Groups with norms that
stress low productivity
Low
Cohesion
(Forsyth, 2014, p. 157)
High
Cohesion