Consequences of Group Cohesiveness

Group cohesiveness is a crucial aspect of group dynamics that can have both positive and negative consequences. While it can enhance group performance and satisfaction, it can also lead to negative outcomes if not managed effectively.

Positive Consequences of Group Cohesiveness

Better Relationship Satisfaction

Members of highly cohesive groups tend to have better relationship satisfaction and better relationships between members and group leaders.

Improved Performance

Groups with high cohesiveness often work harder to meet important goals and have been found to outperform low cohesion groups.

Negative Consequences of Group Cohesiveness

Pressure to Conform

High levels of cohesion can cause pressure for members to conform their behavior to adhere to group norms. This can lead to a sacrifice of diversity of thought and critical feedback from group members, as individuals may stop voicing their individual opinions.

Limited External Input and Ideas

Group cohesion can close off the group from external inputs and ideas, limiting the group’s ability to adapt to environmental changes.

Adoption of Extreme Ideas

Cohesive groups may adopt extreme ideas that go unchallenged, potentially leading to flawed decision-making.

Groupthink

Groupthink is a further result of a failure to incorporate diverse and critical input. It can lead to flawed decision-making caused by reductions in mental efficiency, reality testing, and moral judgment.

Decreased Focus on Task Completion

High levels of cohesion can result in group members spending more time interacting socially than working on individual tasks. Additionally, group goals may begin to diverge from organizational goals.

In conclusion, group cohesiveness is a complex phenomenon with both positive and negative consequences. It is important for group leaders to foster a level of cohesiveness that enhances group performance without leading to negative outcomes. This can be achieved by encouraging open communication, valuing diversity of thought, and promoting a culture of critical thinking and adaptability.

FAQs

What are the positive consequences of group cohesiveness?

• Better Relationship Satisfaction: Members of highly cohesive groups tend to have better relationships with each other and with group leaders.
• Improved Performance: Cohesive groups often work harder to achieve important goals and have been found to outperform low cohesion groups.

What are the negative consequences of group cohesiveness?

• Pressure to Conform: High levels of cohesion can lead to pressure for members to conform to group norms, which can stifle creativity and critical thinking.
• Limited External Input and Ideas: Cohesive groups may be less open to external input and ideas, which can limit their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Adoption of Extreme Ideas: Cohesive groups may be more likely to adopt extreme ideas, as members are less likely to challenge each other’s opinions.
• Groupthink: Cohesive groups may experience groupthink, a phenomenon where the desire for consensus leads to flawed decision-making.
• Decreased Focus on Task Completion: High levels of cohesion can sometimes lead to group members spending more time socializing than working on tasks.

How can group leaders foster healthy group cohesiveness?

• Encourage Open Communication: Leaders should create a culture where members feel comfortable expressing their opinions, even if they differ from the majority.
• Value Diversity of Thought: Leaders should value and encourage diversity of thought and perspectives within the group.
• Promote Critical Thinking: Leaders should encourage group members to think critically about issues and challenge each other’s ideas.
• Set Clear Goals and Expectations: Leaders should set clear goals and expectations for the group and ensure that members are working towards common objectives.

How can group members manage the negative consequences of group cohesiveness?

• Be Aware of the Potential for Negative Consequences: Group members should be aware of the potential negative consequences of group cohesiveness and be vigilant about avoiding them.
• Speak Up: Members should feel comfortable speaking up and expressing their opinions, even if they differ from the majority.
• Encourage Openness to New Ideas: Members should encourage the group to be open to new ideas and perspectives, even if they challenge existing beliefs.
• Focus on Task Completion: Members should ensure that the group stays focused on completing tasks and achieving its goals.

By understanding the consequences of group cohesiveness and taking steps to manage them, group leaders and members can create cohesive groups that are productive, innovative, and successful.