Abstract
In this paper, we investigate how adaptive and maladaptive humor influence well-being in the workplace. In particular, this study examines the extent to which reactions from others (i.e., humor targets) can moderate the relationship between humor and well-being. Unlike prior research, we adopted a withinperson research design. We used data from a two-week-long diary study of 57 Dutch individuals employed in the automotive sector. Our hierarchical linear modeling analysis found that employees are more engaged on days when they express adaptive humor, while they appear more emotionally exhausted on days when they express maladaptive humor. Reactions from humor targets do not moderate the effects of humor. Using a within-person design, this study makes an important contribution to the humor at work literature, which has focused almost exclusively on inter-individual differences.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 573-594 |
Number of pages | 22 |
Journal | Humor-International Journal of Humor Research |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Oct 2013 |
Keywords
- humor
- adaptive humor
- maladaptive humor
- work engagement
- emotional exhaustion
- diary study
- JOB-DEMANDS
- INDIVIDUAL-DIFFERENCES
- SENSE
- ENGAGEMENT
- BURNOUT
- RESOURCES
- BEHAVIOR
- STYLES
- HEALTH
- MODEL