Posted by Drealm on
URL: https://coalpha.arkian.net/Group-Cohesion-tp5588680p5590261.html

J. Donner wrote

What is done in boot camp and MCT that is not done in the fleet are guided discussions with small unit leaders about core values and ethical behavior.

Continuing these discussions in the fleet would be a boon, but that's not the only thing that should be done. Marines that positively demonstrate the Core Values should be rewarded as such.

I guess attending church serves a similar function to guided discussions. Once we have more members, do you think scheduled discussions over something like skype would be an effective way to start creating cohesion?

Yes, it's important to be rewarded for good behavior. I'm not sure what type of rewards CoAlpha Brothhood can offer though. One idea is receiving virtual titles. These titles can be awarded based on post count, studying material, ect. Another idea is giving away commemorative items for time spent in group. I originally thought things like mugs, t-shirts, ect, would be a good idea. But maybe something that's handmade by a group member would be more meaningful.

J. Donner wrote

Depends on the group and the group's purpose. For example, a meaningful regulation that could be instantly suggested for this group would be to not associate with or conduct business with feminists. Regulations need to extend naturally from a group's stated purpose and from the group's values (every group has values, but some groups have more clearly defined ones than others).

Focusing on uniforms/hair cuts/marching cadences etc is focusing on style over substance. Create something of substance and the style will naturally evolve from it; style is never the defining element of a truly successful/strong group.

I think substance will come when we reach a critical mass (50 - 100 virtual members), or when we meet in person.

fschmidt wrote

Another is simply time spent together.  People who work together tend to develop some connection.  And a more intense version of this is dealing with shared stress.  Men who fight together in war tend to develop strong bonds.  Many team building exercises are based on this idea of shared stress.  Anyway, I haven't studied this question, but those are my guesses.

Yes it's a universal phenomena that cohesion is rapidly accelerated under a) close relationships and b) stress, usually physical in nature. Sports teams develop lots of cohesion this way. Boot camps do too.

If we reach a point where we have both the members and infrastructure to organize annual meetings, these annual meetings can serve as an opportunity to do stressful team building exercises.