Perceived Humor and Social Network Patterns in a Sample of Task-Oriented Groups: A Reexamination of Prior Research

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Abstract
Nine diverse, task-oriented groups were studied in an effort to relate humor networks and interpersonal relations. Data were collected by means of a self-administered, structured questionnaire. The results did not confirm the assumption that rank-and-file employees are more actively involved in the humor network than are managers. However, in cases where managers were included, they were first accepted as friends. Unlike prior studies, this analysis revealed that when managers were accepted as friends and “admitted” to the humor network they were frequently overchosen as initiators and foci of work-related joking. There was strong evidence that cohesive and noncohesive work groups possess different humor patterns. Interpersonally, overchosen members relative to one criterion of interpersonal relations were overchosen relative to several criteria. Also, in many cases, group members who occupied key humor roles were overchosen on one or more criteria of social interaction. Humor networks were identified as an extension of the larger social environment of work.

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