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.