An Analysis of the Extent to Which Humor is Accepted and Employed in the Workplace for the Enhancement of Productivity and Creativity.
Abstract
Today's business literature is filled with discussions of the many benefits humor can bring to the work environment. Two of these purported benefits, namely, the enhancement of workplace productivity and the enhancement of workplace creativity, have attracted the attention of modern managers challenged with keeping their organizations competitive despite dwindling financial and human resources. Unfortunately, little research has been done to date which actually demonstrates a link between the existance of workplace humor and improved levels of productivity and creativity. Without this demonstration of causality, most managers are reluctant to invest corporate resources in pursuit of workplace humor despite its many purported advantages. As a first step to establishing this relationship, the focus of this exploratory research was to assess the level of employee and management acceptance of workplace humor and to evaluate employee opinions regarding humor's potential to enhance productivity and creativity. The research also evaluated the effect of various moderating variables, including organizational size, type of industry, gender, age and employee level. Using data gathered via a mail survey, the researchers employed Chi-Square contingency table analyses to evaluate the effects of these moderating variables on employee attitudes regarding workplace humor. The study provides a foundation for further research into the relationship between workplace humor and productivity and creativity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA288753
Entities
People
- Jonathan R. Specht
- Paul D. Tobin
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology