The Effect of Effort and Collective Directional Movement on Perceptions of Cohesion

Abstract

Previous research has shown that groups travelling together are rated as being more cohesive than groups taking part in non-directional interactions. Meanwhile, past studies have also identified a correlational relationship between perceptions of both effort and cohesion. A mixed factorial design was used to investigate the effect and interaction of movement and effort on ratings of perceived cohesion, shared goals and common fate. Participants read vignettes designed to convey groups taking part in tasks of varying movement types and effort levels. Responses were measured using a questionnaire looking at various measures of cohesion. Results found no significant effect of moving together but instead, partial support for the effect of effort on levels of perceived cohesion, shared goals or common fate. There was also partial support of an interaction between movement and effort, with high-effort CDM groups perceived as having more cohesion, shared goals and common fate. The results are discussed regarding possible methodological issues and how these may be corrected in future studies.