Humor and OD

Humor and OD

An informal group interested in the role of humor in organization development seems to be emerging at Mass ODLG. Donna Hamarah-Mill urged practitioners to develop their sense of humor at the January meeting. At the February meeting several of us, including Donna Hanifa-Mill, Susan Lee, Elin Anna Bjarnadottir, Sarah Kingsbury, Steve Ober, Bob Maitland, and Jim Webber clustered around a reference page that classified types of humor. This classification scheme is being used by the Union of International Associations (www.UIA.org) in their work on creating a harmonious world.

Humor is a serious matter in organization development. Humor is an essential leadership virtue as embodied by Jim Murphy, our illustrious leader. Humor and playfulness are critical skills of the group facilitator. Humor enhances personal well-being and health and is used systematically and therapeutically in healthcare settings. Humor is a means of communication. Laughter reduces tension and provides perspective in the workplace. Humor plays a role in conflict management as illustrated by the formation of APHIA, the Association for the Promotion of Humor in International Affairs.

There are different kinds of humor – OD has a special interest in mutually enhancing humor as opposed to cynical, destructive and mocking humor. The International Society for Humor Studies organizes its research on humor around: genres & types, disciplinary approaches, writers & performers, cultural traditions and applications.

Come to the March 9th meeting and laugh it up with us,

References:
International Society for Humor Studies: http://www.hnu.edu/ishs/
Humor and Play-Fullness article: http://laetusinpraesens.org/musings/humour.php

Jim Webber