A new study has revealed that everyday acts of kindness—ranging from a warm tone of voice to sincere smiles and attentive listening—can significantly improve teamwork and foster a greater sense of cooperation. The research, led by a team at SWPS University in partnership with a Tel Aviv University scholar, demonstrates that simple gestures of niceness enhance social connectedness, which in turn boosts both group satisfaction and willingness to collaborate (neurosciencenews.com).
In a world where the pressure to be assertive or highly efficient often overshadows the value of softness and interpersonal warmth, this study stands out for its scientific validation of everyday niceness. For Thai society, where harmonious relationships and respectful interactions are deeply embedded in cultural norms, these findings offer timely, evidence-based encouragement to embrace such behaviors, whether in the classroom, the corporate boardroom, or daily community life.
According to the published research in Social Psychology, the project involved two experimental studies. In the first, 463 participants aged 18 to 67 assessed their typical levels of everyday kindness by noting behaviors like using a warm tone when paying in a store or expressing sincere thanks. They also reported on their feelings of belonging and attitudes toward cooperation. The data confirmed that individuals who were more inclined toward kindness felt a stronger sense of social connection, which then predicted greater willingness to cooperate.
The second study put this relationship to the test under controlled conditions. Here, 164 university students were split into small work teams. Some were explicitly asked to practice kindness—smiling, listening actively, and creating positive atmospheres—while the control group was told to focus strictly on the task, using neutral, assertive tones and limiting smiles or jokes. Teams instructed to behave nicely reported higher satisfaction with their work, a more positive view of collaboration, and stronger social bonds than those asked to remain neutral or impersonal.
Psychologist and study co-author from SWPS University noted, “Those who act friendly experience an increased sense of belonging and are less likely to struggle with loneliness or depression.” The results, she emphasized, have practical implications across diverse environments—education, workplace, business, and even politics.
This research disperses the common belief that kindness might be interpreted as weakness or a lack of confidence. “Our study shows that niceness and effective performance are not necessarily at odds with each other,” the psychologist explained. “Being nice can motivate people to work toward a common goal.” These insights are particularly relevant for organizational cultures striving to balance assertiveness with teamwork and long-term productivity.
In Thailand, the idea that a “kreng jai” approach—consideration for others’ feelings—enhances social harmony aligns strongly with the findings. For workplaces and schools, where group projects and collective problem-solving are common, this research encourages training programs and leadership models that actively promote interpersonal warmth. Business and educational leaders can use these discoveries to foster environments where kindness isn’t just decorum but a strategic resource for high morale and productivity.
Historical and cultural norms in Thailand already prize respect and gentleness, yet the current push toward global competitiveness sometimes overlooks relational skills. This study brings scientific backing to the integration of emotional intelligence in Thai professional and social settings. Over time, reinforcing niceness could help reduce workplace stress, lessen social isolation, and support mental well-being—a factor Thai health professionals often stress as vital amid rising mental health challenges (WHO Thailand).
Looking ahead, researchers advocate for more organizations and schools to design interventions that train individuals in pro-social behaviors. As public health and education specialists in Thailand increasingly recognize the central role of social connectedness in mental wellness and academic achievement, these findings might shape new policies or curricula promoting kindness as a foundational skill.
For the average Thai reader—student, office worker, public servant, or business owner—this research offers one actionable takeaway: small, genuine acts of kindness count. Whether it’s a heartfelt “khop khun krub/ka” (thank you), a warm smile, or simply listening more attentively, each gesture can ripple through teams and communities, fueling cooperation and satisfaction.
If you are in a position to influence group dynamics—whether as a teacher, manager, or local community organizer—consider incorporating training or reminders about the power of everyday niceness. These approaches can be adapted into Thai classrooms, company workshops, and local government development plans to harness the full potential of social connectedness for social progress and national well-being.
For further reading and references, see the original article at Neuroscience News and the paper “Niceness Fosters Cooperativeness Through Social Connectedness” published in Social Psychology.