Group cohesion conflicts and motivational climate in youth sports initiation at a rugby club

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze group cohesion conflicts and motivational climate in a rugby introductory sports group, category M9 (9 years old), in Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina. The main objective was to identify and analyze their characteristics and causes, considering factors that influence their emergence and their impact on the group process. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with the head coach and 8 children. Data analysis was carried out through linking discourses, practices, actors, and tools, framed within an interpretative analysis and supported by theoretical reference frameworks. The findings revealed conflicts of group cohesion and a negative motivational climate within the team. A lack of empathy and individualism in this case hinder teamwork. Constant criticism among teammates, demotivation, and exclusion of less skilled members were observed, generating tensions and fragmentation. Furthermore, the more competent children seem to dominate the dynamics, affecting participation and group cohesion. These behaviors reflect problems in interactions and may be influencing the overall demotivation, although their impact varies among group members.