The term 'group cohesiveness’ is widely discussed by sociologists. Although different sociologists attribute different properties to the term, most agree that group cohesiveness is the degree to which the members of a group desire to remain in the group. Thus, the members of a highly cohesive group, in contrast to the group with a low level of cohesiveness, are more interested in their membership, in group objectives and activities. Cohesiveness increases the significance of membership for those who belong to the group.
Cohesiveness, as sociologists state, develops a general group atmosphere that determines members' reaction to the group as a whole. Some groups are business-like, impersonal and efficient. Others are warm, relaxed and friendly. And still others are full of tension. These differences between groups are the subject of constant sociological research.
IX. Answer: Do you think of your group as cohesive? Give your reasons.
X. Find in the text synonyms for:
to discover; chief; to be interested in; also; to offer; to choose; on the foundation; to use; to isolate; purpose; environment.
XI. Answer: What are the sociologists concerned with? Use the words in brackets.
The sociologists are concerned with (social institutions, social relations, social groups, group classification, group properties, group types).
XII. Make up your own sentences with the following word-combinations:
to be concerned with
on the basis of
to employ something
according to
to react on something
and the like
Ask your groupmates to translate them.
ÕØ. Translate the following sentences into Russian.
1. He was greatly concerned with the latest sociological research.
2. In their conversation they concerned a great number of vital problems.
3. His main concern was sociology.
4. They talked much concerning the main points of his report.
5. She was concerned with the problem of social relations at the high level of the society's development.