Abstract
This study examined whether everyday conversational humor is related to job satisfaction, and if the relationship is mediated by positive affect. We also explored differences between the roles of humor production and humor appreciation, and tested the cyclical nature of the relationship by examining whether job satisfaction stimulates subsequent humor. Data were obtained through an experience sampling study in which participants completed two brief surveys each day for 10 consecutive workdays (Level 1 n=237–279, Level 2 N=35). Results revealed a positive relationship between humor and job satisfaction that was partially mediated by positive affect, and also indicated that job satisfaction on day t predicted humor production the morning of day t + 1. This study contributes to the literature by examining the previously theorized but untested hypothesis that humor’s effects stem from their impact on affect, and also by exploring the distinction between humor production and appreciation.
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