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Physiological and Behavioral Synchrony Predict Group Cohesion and Performance
Ilanit Gordon1,2, Avi Gilboa3, Shai Cohen3
1Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel. Ilanit.gordon@biu.ac.il.
Scientific Reports
|May 23, 2020
Summary
Group drumming synchrony, both behavioral and physiological, enhances feelings of cohesion and improves performance in group tasks. This study reveals how synchrony fosters social bonds and coordination in teams.
Area of Science:
- Social neuroscience
- Group dynamics
- Interpersonal synchrony
Background:
- Interpersonal synchrony is known to impact social functioning in pairs.
- Its effects on group experiences and performance are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how synchrony influences group cohesion and performance.
- To examine the relationship between behavioral and physiological synchrony in group settings.
Main Methods:
- A novel group drumming task was developed with predictable and unpredictable tempos.
- Fifty-one three-person groups were assigned to synchronized or asynchronized conditions.
- Electrocardiograms and self-reports measured physiological synchrony, behavioral synchrony, and group cohesion.
Main Results:
- The drumming task successfully increased physiological synchrony (heart interbeat intervals) among group members.
- Both physiological and behavioral synchronization predicted greater self-reported group cohesion.
- Physiological synchrony predicted better performance in a subsequent free drumming task.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral and physiological synchrony play a role in forming group bonds and enhancing coordination.
- Translational social neuroscience offers valuable insights into developing cohesive and effective groups.
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