Date of Award

12-1994

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Thomas S. Graham, PhD

Second Advisor

David J. Murphy, PhD

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 existence 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.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GSS-LAS-94D-4

DTIC Accession Number

ADA288753

Comments

The authors' respective Vita pages are omitted.

Presented to the Faculty of the Graduate School of Logistics and Acquisition Management of the Air Force Institute of Technology.

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