The butt of the joke: Understanding the social evaluations of leader humor targets

Abstract

Research on humor at work has tended to focus on either the social evaluations formed about the source of humor or the interpersonal consequences that accompany the use of humor. Yet, research suggests that the targets of humor - such as a follower who is the punchline of her leader's jokes - face their own unique judgements and impressions from the social environment. Indeed, humor directed toward another person can communicate important information about the individual and can shape how others perceive and evaluate them. Unfortunately, research on the social evaluations of humor targets is fragmented and relatively underdeveloped. We advance understanding of humor at work by reviewing research on the social evaluations of humor targets, with particular focus on the social evaluations of leader humor targets (i.e., followers). We conclude with several directions for future research.

Keywords: Humor targets; Leader humor; Social evaluations; Third-party reactions.