Long studied in the literature is the consistent relationship between cohesion and team performance (e.g., Beal et al., 2003; Gully et al., 2013; Mullen & Cooper, 1994). As the most studied emergent state (LePine et al., 2008), Festinger (1950) describes cohesion as, “the resultant forces which are acting on the members to stay in a group” (p. 274). The conceptualization of this emergent state includes two components known as task and social cohesion (Festinger, Schachter & Back, 1950). According to Festinger et al. (1950), task cohesion occurs when the accomplishment of tasks yields the achievement of important goals for both the individual and the collective whole. Task cohesion is a product of the necessity for individuals to work in groups …show more content…
The role of communication on cohesion development cannot be captured simply by looking at the frequency of communication. While communicating with an individual is essential for cohesion development, what is also critical to the formation of cohesion is the perceived source from which communication is occurring over time. The appraisal of the source of communication (e.g., advice or hindrance) can function as a moderator for the development of cohesion. If an individual is seen as a source of hindrance, this appraisal alone will negatively impact cohesion development. . In general, individuals seen as sources of hindrance are viewed negatively. When communicating with an individual that is viewed as a source of hindrance, this will be reflected in the relationship between these individuals. Team members who are not inclined to have positive feelings between each other will be less likely to interact positively. Over time, these relationships are less likely to develop a sense of cohesion and their related behaviors. Alternatively, sources of advice are generally viewed positively. When a team member see another as a source of advice, they are more likely to interact positively together over time. A greater sense of positive associations with individuals facilitates a sense of cohesion. This perception of positive associations with individuals facilitates cohesion-building among group members over
High cohesiveness is an effective tool in the success and effectiveness of an organization. However, in order for ...
Group cohesion is defined as a dynamic process “which is reflected in the tendency for a group to stick together and remain united in the pursuit of its instrumental objectives” (Carron et al., 1985). Literature in to the field of group cohesion is vast Levi, (2001) Discusses group cohesion and refers to the interpersonal bonds that mould a group together. Several various theorists feel that the fundamental components of group cohesion is that of a feeling of belonging or social identity (Lott & Lott 1965:- Hogg 1992)
In conclusion, team cohesion is still a difficult concept to pin down, but I believe the definition is a multi-faceted one where many factors to contribute to group cohesion. In addition, it is my belief that conflict or performance of an objective can either create cohesion or a stronger group bond. However team cohesion is achieved by the organization, it is how well the team contributes to the overall good of the group that the better the group will perform, which in turns has a positive effect on overall organizational goals.
Turman, P. (October 25, 2000f). Group Cohesiveness and Conflict: Group Communication [Lecture] Cedar Falls, IA. University of Northern Iowa, Communication Studies Department.
Teams are groups of people who work together to achieve a common goal (Learning Team Handbook, p 310). Workplace teams are increasing as businesses find the yield of team productivity and creativity exceeds individual productivity/creativity. To promulgate productive teams, businesses have had to identify common threads for successful teams. Businesses have identified the dynamics and needs of successful teams.
It is proven that teams who work well together perform and have a higher rate of success compared to teams who do not work well together or communicate with each other. A recent article with regards to leadership discussed the topic of group cohesion and how this is a factor for success. The article discussed several situations, one about a business company, one about a sports team and one about a military operation. The article closely analyzed the leaders of the three situations and discussed the similarities and differences between the three. The main similarity between was there focus on cohesion. The article contained facts about how the business was operating and how that in recent years, production and sales as increased drastically, and one factor for this increase was the CEO implemented a mandatory team building exercise each
Stewart, G., Manz, C., & Sims, H., (1999). Teamwork and Group Dynamics. New York: Wiley. pp. 70- 125.
According to Toseland and Rivas (2005), group dynamics are “the forces that result from the interactions of group members” (p. 64). These forces refer to either the negative or positive influences towards meeting members’ socioemotional needs as well as goal attainment within a group (Toseland & Rivas, 2005), like within my class work group experience. Some of dynamics that continue to emerge and develop in my group is the effective interaction patterns and strong group cohesion, which has generated positive outcomes and group achievement thus far.
A group can only be called a team if the members are actively working together toward a common goal. A team must have the capability to set goals, make decisions, solve problems, and share responsibilities. For a team to be successful, trust must be earned between its members by being consistent and reliable (Temme & Katzel, 2005). When more than one person is working on a particular task, inconsistent views or opinions commonly arise. People come from different backgrounds and live through different life experiences therefore, even when working towards a common goal, they will not always see eye to eye. Major conflict that is not dealt with can devastate a team or organization (Make Conflict Work, 2008). In some situations, conflict can be more constructive than destructive. Recognizing the difference between conflict that is constructive to the team and conflict that is destructive to the team is important. Trying to prevent the conflict is not always the best way to manage conflict when working within a team setting. Understanding conflict, what causes it, and how to resolve conflict effectively, should consume full concentration.
Work groups have a great impact upon the attitude and the conduct of group members. The group with high cohesiveness has more “we” feeling rather than “I” feeling. There is more cooperation and positive work environment when the group has high cohesiveness. The researchers are also trying to explore if this kind of cohesive behavior on groups have any impact upon the citizenship behavior they show. Cartwright (1968) observed that the cohesiveness has a positive impact upon intragroup communication, favorable interpersonal evaluation, and also it influence higher OCB if it matches with the group norms.
From the beginning, where we were unfamiliar with each other and became a team, my team and I had started to learn each other name and getting to know each other. Throughout each meeting, we slowly start to feel more comfortable and open minded with each other. Not only are we getting familiar with each other, each meeting that was held we progress of becoming an effective team member, we learn our strengths and weaknesses of everyone. During the meetings, we learn many concepts from the textbook, “Communicating in Small Groups: Principles and Practices” by Steven A. Beebe and John T. Masterson. We were able to learn different types of concept in the textbook and utilized it as a team to complete certain tasks. The three concepts that impacted my team and I are human
Working in teams provides an opportunity for individuals to come together and establish a rapport towards others within a group. Teamwork is classified as people with different strengths and skills who work together to achieve a common goal. When a team works well, specific objectives are fulfilled and satisfied. Teamwork plays a crucial role in implementing and fulfilling a common goal in a team project. Each member plays a role and takes on different responsibilities combined together. In different stages of teamwork, conflicts and arguments may occur for as members have different standpoints which need to be harmonized within the team. The key to having an effective teamwork is to explore each member's unique abilities to motivate them.
Effective communication encompasses many concepts. For a leader to be effective, one must be able to build relationships between different parties. In order to build a good rapport, one must be able to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of those involved, and within oneself. Acknowledging these differences will allow for a better collaboration between team members. A leader must also have the ability to put conflict resolution theories into practice. Allowing differing points of view may challenge the original idea and will make for a more thorough decision making process. Although this may seem counterproductive, it actually ensures the best possible outcome. One must be consistent in the message presented yet be flexible, approachable and maintain a positive attitude. Allowing for different perspectives to be heard will allow team members to feel valued. This flexibility helps to solidify the concept that everyone is in this together; thus establishing an environment where all team members can have a buy-in. Encouraging team members to voice opinions and give feedback produces an atmosphere of constructive give-and-take; a real t...
Lastly, the reflection back is very important to the corrective emotional experience. What I found useful about group cohesiveness is knowing that you are never alone at first; the members feel alone, but they are others who have gone through the same things they have. Group cohesiveness gives members a sense that they belong and are welcomed. The group members are initially very supportive and accepting of new and old members.
When analyzing a group and its development, there are several points to consider. The greater the similarity in member attitudes and values brought to the group, the greater the likelihood of cohesion in the group. Group cohesion will be increased by success in achieving the groups’ goals, low frequency of required external interactions and under conditions of abundant resources.