Social Network Analysis as a Complimentary Tool to Measuring Team Cohesion

Abstract

In addition to the Group Environment Questionnaire (GEQ), Social Networking Analysis (SNA) has emerged as a promising approach to measuring team cohesion. However, little to no research has simultaneously used both measures to compare and contrast their unique benefits. Using a multilevel theoretical approach, this study examined the relationship between SNA (friendship and efficacy) and the GEQ, and their relationships with team performance, over a playing season for four volleyball teams (N = 49). Findings indicated that the GEQ and SNA are likely measuring different constructs. While the GEQ was a better global measure of team cohesion, SNA was able to offer a multilevel perspective and unique insight into the evolution of the teams over the season. The SNA networks revealed that the team with fewer friendship connections was more successful in terms of team performance. The results further position SNA and the GEQ as important, yet unique, tools for understanding the functioning, or lack thereof, of teams. Practical applications, theoretical implications, and recommendations for future research are provided.