Analyzing Social Tolerance and Group Cohesion among Students at Higher Education Institutions through Non-Parametric Methods

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between social tolerance and group cohesion among undergraduate students at a public sector university in Pakistan. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed to investigate the association between the variables. The study population comprised students enrolled in BS (4 Year) programs in the Faculty of Social Sciences. Using proportionate random sampling and Yamane's (1967) formula, a sample of 393 respondents was selected from six academic departments. Data were collected through a structured, pilot-tested questionnaire containing standardized measures of social tolerance and group cohesion. The collected data were coded, screened, and analyzed using SPSS. Data normality was assessed, and Kendall’s tau-b was applied to examine the relationship between the study variables. The findings revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between social tolerance and group cohesion, indicating that students with higher levels of tolerance were more likely to demonstrate stronger cooperation, trust, and unity within their groups. The study concludes that promoting social tolerance can strengthen group cohesion and foster inclusive, harmonious, and collaborative learning environments in higher education institutions. The findings provide valuable implications for university administrators, educators, and policymakers in promoting social integration and campus harmony.