Exploring the Nature and Strength of Key Motivational Predictors of Group Cohesion

Abstract

The main aim of this study was look at the relative impact that multiple variables have upon cohesion. This was investigated by selecting non-elite athletes (n=71), all of which play various team sports (Netball, Football, Basketball etc.). Each athlete completed a questionnaire booklet containing the group environment questionnaire (GEQ); basic need satisfaction in sport scale (BNSSS), perceived motivational climate in sport questionnaire 2 (PMCSQ-2); coaching feedback questionnaire (CFQ) and the leadership scale for sport (LSS). A multiple regression analysis was used to test the significance of each independent variable on the dependent variable (cohesion). Basic needs was found to be the only variable which was significant in predicting every GEQ subscale ATG-T r²=.24 (p<0.01), ATG-S r²=.20 (p<0.05), GI-T r²=.23 (p<0.01) and GI-S r²=.26 (p<0.01). Beta values were then analysed to see which subscales were accounting for the significance of each sub-variable. Relatedness significantly predicted more cohesive subscales than any other subscale ATG-S β=.40 (p<0.01), GI-T β=.35 (p<0.01) and GI-S β.48 (p<0.01). In conclusion each independent variable significantly affected at least one GEQ subscale. The main practical implication from the study suggests that coaches focus on increasing the significant variables that are said to impact cohesion, in order to achieve higher cohesion levels within their team. Future research is suggested to explore the differences in goal orientation depending on athletic level. Overall, this study contributes to cohesion research showing which variable has the greatest relative impact upon cohesion and which has the least. This information can be used as a guide on what is the most important variable to focus on when trying to improve cohesion.