The effects of threat and frustration on group cohesiveness.

A field experiment concerned with the effects of threat and frustration upon cohesiveness seemed to justify several conclusions. (a) A reduction in threat seems to increase cohesiveness. (b) A reduction in frustration does not increase cohesiveness. (c) A catharsis of hostility may increase the attractiveness of teams toward which hostility is directed. (d) Strong frustration may produce "a withdrawal symptom consisting of reduced interteam competition and increased intrateam cooperation." (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)