Does diversity affect group efficacy? The intervening role of cohesion and task interdependence

This study examined the relation between racioethnic diversity and group efficacy (assessed as group outcome efficacy and group potency). Social cohesion was hypothesized to moderate this relationship. The authors also predicted that the interactive effect of racioethnic diversity and social cohesion on group efficacy would be mediated by task interdependence. The sample consisted of 42 student project groups. Data were gathered at the completion of the groups' projects. The results indicate support for the hypotheses that racioethnic diversity is positively related to group efficacy and that the effect of racioethnic diversity on group outcome efficacy is enhanced by social cohesion. There was also some support for the mediating role of task interdependence. © 2001 Sage Publications