The Actual State of Group Cohesion in Voluntary Groups

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to clarify the actual condition of group cohesion in a voluntary group based on the structure of group cohesion and the factors related to group cohesion.

Method: A total of 270 people aged 65 and above participated in voluntary group activities. The questionnaire asked questions about basic attributes, group characteristics, group cohesion, and willingness to participate in group activities.

Results: Questionnaire responses were obtained from 227 participants, and the number of valid responses was 194 (valid response rate: 71.8%). Factor analysis revealed that group cohesion consisted of 11 items with four factors: Factor 1 was “attraction to group activities,” Factor 2 was “strong solidarity,” Factor 3 was “strength of connection between group members,” and Factor 4 was “cooperation to achieve goals.” There were statistically significant associations in the case of group cohesion based on gender, age, and subjective health.

Discussion: It was shown that the participants in the voluntary group were cohered based on the activities and the interactions among the participants. Thus, it is necessary to organize group activities according to the age and health status of the people.