O humor nas organizações

: uma investigação interpretativista e aplicada sobre a prática do humor em contexto profissional

Abstract

Humor has been studied in a variety of perspectives in the last years. However, there are some gaps in the literature concerning the humor interpretative investigations in modern organizations. Recognizing this problem, this study intends to develop a humor communication model for a group of individuals of an organization, using a methodology based in a participant observation and questionnaires. Humor is present in the everyday life of organizations and consists in a dynamic communication process with emphasis on group interaction and dependent on the context in which it operates. The interaction we observe over time has a circular causal character, with constant feedback between two or more individuals and there is a sequential influence between actors in the communication process. It was possible to categorize the humor used within the observation group, define a taxonomy of humor that reflects its character, resources and process initiator's intentions. The context of the situation influences the type of humor used and contributes to its distinction and creation of unique symbols by the group. Humor has a key role in interpersonal relationships in organizations, and the humorous practices interfere and influence the group interaction, communication, power relations and leadership and organizational culture. We can determine the characteristic humor interaction patterns for each group or organization, reflecting the interpersonal relations and the permitted or acceptable behavior in a given context. Thus, the Humor-Initiator-Audience-Context-Communication (HIACC) model will contribute to a conceptual delimitation of the humor theme in organizations, enhancing the identification of factors that can promote effective communication in a professional context.

Date of Award	11 Jul 2016
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Fernando Ilharco (Supervisor)