Humor in workgroups and teams

Humor is an inherently social phenomenon. In the workplace, humor manifests most prominently in teams of employees that work together (e.g. Lefcourt, 2001). Humor in workgroups and teams can be a powerful positive resource and has been linked to a number of positive outcomes. In organizations, humor has the potential to enhance group cohesiveness (Duncan, 1982), improve employee morale (Gruner, 1997), stimulate individual and group creativity (Murdock & Ganim, 1993), create a more positive organizational culture (Clouse & Spurgeon, 1995), and to promote motivation (Crawford, 1994) and productivity (Clouse & Spurgeon, 1995). Thus, the purpose of this chapter is to review how humor in teams might play a key role in driving these workplace outcomes. By discussing what is known about humor in teams, the chapter concludes with ideas for future inquiry in the area of humor in teams, particularly in terms of interaction processes and workplace fun.