Perceived Group Cohesion and its Relation with Individual and Team Performance in Sports

Cohesion is a dynamic concept amongst groups involving group integration, attractiveness to the group, task orientation, and social belongingness. Extensive research shows a positive relationship between cohesion and performance. This study aims to analyze the relationship and predictability of cohesion and its factors on individual and team performance. Participants (n=29, 20-26 years) were college athletes representing American football, baseball, women’s basketball, women’s soccer, and women’s volleyball. They were given a survey containing demographic questions, the Group Environment Questionnaire, and a performance questionnaire. Correlational and multiple regression analyses showed a significant relationship between cohesion and both measures of performance, with Group Integration-Task being a strong predictor of team performance. Investing in improving the collective pursuit of a common goal appears to be a good predictor of performance at the team level. These findings can further the literature on cohesion and performance, including improving cohesion and performance amongst groups and teams.