The Role of Group Dynamics Elements in Farmer Groups Sustainability: An Empirical Study Employing SMART PLS on Sheep Farmer Groups in the Banjarnegara Regency Highlands

Abstract This study investigates the impact of group dynamics components on the sustainability of sheep farmer groups in the highlands of Banjarnegara Regency, Indonesia. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), data were analyzed from 132 sheep farmers, representing 20% of the total 440 sheep farmers, selected through simple random sampling across Pejawaran, Pagentan, Batur, and Kalibening districts. Structured questionnaires assessed eight group dynamics components—group goals, group structure, group functions and tasks, group development and training, group cohesion, group atmosphere, group tension, and group effectiveness—and their influence on sustainability of sheep farmer groups in the Highlands of Banjarnegara Regency, Indonesia. The analysis, performed with SmartPLS 4.0, revealed that group atmosphere (t = 2.454, p = 0.014) and group cohesion (t = 1.972, p = 0.049) significantly and positively affect group sustainability, whereas other components like group goals and group structure exhibited weaker effects (P > 0.05). The model accounts for 37.7% of the variance in sheep farmer groups sustainability (R 2 = 0.377), indicating that while group dynamics are pivotal, external factors may also play a role. These findings underscore the importance of fostering a supportive group atmosphere and strong interpersonal cohesion to enhance farmer groups sustainability. It is recommended that policymakers and extension agents prioritize social interventions, participatory leadership, and capacity-building programs to bolster group resilience. Future research should consider external factors such as market access, financial resources, and government support to further strengthen farmer groups sustainability strategies.