Tribes That Thrive: Correlation between Organizational Climate and Group Cohesion within Student Organizations of the University of the Philippines Manila

Abstract

Based on previous studies, both organizational climate and group cohesion play an important role in organizational dynamics. This study sought to determine whether or not a correlation exists between these variables, and how they affect each other. In addition, it also aimed to identify the levels of group cohesion with respect to the different types of climate (Engaging, Avoiding, and Conflicted). Given the nature of the study, ethical considerations were regarded. A survey was administered to a sample of 150 students sourced from different academic and non-academic student organizations in the University of the Philippines Manila. Mackenzie’s 12-point Group Climate Questionnaire-Short Form (1983) and the 20-point Group Attitude Scale were adopted in this study. Correlation scores were obtained using Pearson Product-Moment and Spearman Rank Correlation tests and were then simplified through Principal Component Analysis. The results (Pearson = -0.580, Spearman = -0.601) showed a negative moderate relationship existing between the variables. These proved that organizational climate affects the cohesiveness of a group—for as climate declines, a group becomes even more cohesive. Less engaging climates were also found to enforce group cohesion while more conflicted climates produce higher cohesion. These showed the members’ need of connecting with each other despite the contradicting factors that affect their internal environment.