An Assessment of the effect of Group Cohesion in Self-Help Groups Functioning: The Case of Self-Help Groups in Addis Ababa
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Date
2024-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Self-help groups (SHGs) are small, voluntary associations of poor individuals from the same socioeconomic background. These groups come together to utilize mutual aid and self-help to address their shared difficulties. Studying group cohesion benefits the sustainability of the group and the achievement of their objectives. It is evident that group cohesion plays a crucial role in sustaining volunteers and achieving their goals.
The general objective of this study was to assess group cohesion and the factors associated with it in self-help groups in Addis Ababa. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. A cross-sectional survey was used as the quantitative method, while Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were conducted as the qualitative approach to reinforce the quantitative findings.
A single population proportion sample size technique was applied, resulting in a sample size of 96 individuals out of a total of 1,430. The KIIs and FGDs were conducted simultaneously. The results showed that in the Yeka sub-city, 82.3% (n=79) of the self-help group members demonstrated group cohesion, while 17.7% (n=17) indicated weak group cohesion. Overall, 75% of the group members exhibited cohesion among team members. Group members who received family support had a 26% greater likelihood of sustaining their membership.
The self-help groups demonstrated strong cohesion due to positive relationships among members, trust, and transparent management. Decisions were made collaboratively within the group. However, the groups lacked a common goal that could be shared among all members.
Key Words: Self-help group, group cohesion, and cohesion.
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Keywords
Self-help group, group cohesion, and cohesion.