The purpose of this study was to explore the
relationship between 'cohesion' and 'flow state'
in competitive Division I College rowers. Overall,
both social and task cohesion were significantly and
positively associated with flow state, and that task
cohesion produced significantly stronger positive
relationships. Rowers were, in effect, more
likely to achieve a flow state through positive task
cohesion than by having positive social
characteristics. Further analysis examined the
influence of performance outcome and competition
level on these relationships. Winning crews possessed
more and stronger relationships between flow and
cohesion than losing crews. In fact, losing crews
appeared to fail to achieve a flow state. The results
were supported by interview data that corroborated
crew members familiarity with a collective team flow
experience. This led to the discussion of a proposed
model of team harmony bridging existing models of
flow state and cohesion. There is a great deal that
is not fully understood about the concept of flow in
groups, but suggestions are made for further research
into this fascinating phenomenon.
relationship between 'cohesion' and 'flow state'
in competitive Division I College rowers. Overall,
both social and task cohesion were significantly and
positively associated with flow state, and that task
cohesion produced significantly stronger positive
relationships. Rowers were, in effect, more
likely to achieve a flow state through positive task
cohesion than by having positive social
characteristics. Further analysis examined the
influence of performance outcome and competition
level on these relationships. Winning crews possessed
more and stronger relationships between flow and
cohesion than losing crews. In fact, losing crews
appeared to fail to achieve a flow state. The results
were supported by interview data that corroborated
crew members familiarity with a collective team flow
experience. This led to the discussion of a proposed
model of team harmony bridging existing models of
flow state and cohesion. There is a great deal that
is not fully understood about the concept of flow in
groups, but suggestions are made for further research
into this fascinating phenomenon.