The influence of social categorisation on the future intentions and attitudes to form subgroups in virtual teams

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of social categorisation on the future intentions and attitudes of individuals to form subgroups in virtual teams. As described in Social Identity Theory and Self Categorisation theory, the effects of subgroups are quite evident in real life situations. This study applies the discoveries of these studies and combines them with other elements, such as anonymity, that are characterising of virtual teams. This study employs a design similar to that used in the Minimal Group Paradigm. Forty participants were divided into 10 groups of 4. Five groups were in the control condition and 5 in the experimental condition. In the experimental condition the groups were categorised into dyads based on their choice in colours (a minimal categorical cue). The participants were given a task to complete, following which they were asked to answer some questions on their intentions and attitudes to subgroup. The results of these two conditions were compared and it was found that there is no statistically significant difference in the intentions and attitudes to form subgroup between participants in the control condition and those in the experimental condition. The study discusses the possibility that minimal categorical cues are not sufficient in creating subgroups within virtual teams.