Background/Purpose: Research suggests that a leader's effectiveness in sport is contingent upon varying characteristics of athletes and the present situation. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between leadership behaviors and team cohesion, through qualitative and quantitative research methods, among collegiate fastpitch softball members.
Method: Participants (n = 13) completed the Group Environment Questionnaire (GEQ); the Perception and Preferred Versions of the Leadership Scale for Sports (LSS); while coaches only completed the Perception Version of the LSS. Further data collection consisted of interviewing randomly selected team members to examine the congruency between qualitative and quantitative responses.
Analysis/Results: Pearson's product moment correlation coefficients revealed a significant relationship between preferred Autocratic Behavior and Attractions to the Group-task (r = .569, p = .04). While other relationships were not significant, findings were consistent with the interview responses of players. A central theme emerged throughout the review of interviews using the constant comparative method. Often cited by the players and coach was, “player autonomy to promote cohesion.”
Conclusions: This may further justify the need for implementing the self-determination theory of motivation. Furthermore, by understanding the congruency between the previous two measures, team unity may be fostered while emphasizing coach-athlete dyads. Similar research designs should be employed to understand gender differences, and to continue practical application of leadership and motivation theories.
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