Summary:
Research by Jonathan Evans, Jerel Slaughter, Aleksander Ellis, and Jessi Rivin recently conducted a study that highlights a worrying problem in the workplace: the disparities in how men and women view comedy. More than 300 workers participated in the study, which found that whereas comedy can improve the opinions of males in work environments, it can have the reverse effect on women.
In many professional environments, humor is seen as a valuable tool for engaging audiences, lightening the mood, and enhancing communication. However, the study suggests that the benefits of humor may not be equally distributed between men and women.
According to the research, men who incorporate humor into their presentations are often viewed more positively. They are seen as witty, likable, and possessing higher status within the organization. In contrast, women who use humor are sometimes perceived as having poor judgment or attempting to compensate for a lack of business acumen.
The findings highlight a disparity in how humor is perceived based on gender stereotypes. Men are often stereotyped as being more achievement-oriented and task-focused, aligning with a functional view of humor. On the other hand, women are sometimes stereotyped as being less dedicated to work, aligning with a disruptive view of humor.
The study involved participants watching presentations by male and female actors portraying retail store managers. When humor was added to the presentations, the male actor received higher ratings of status, job performance, and leadership capability. In contrast, the female actor received lower ratings when humor was included.
These results suggest that humor at work is interpreted differently for men and women, with potential negative consequences for women who use humor in professional settings. However, the researchers emphasize that this does not mean women should refrain from using humor altogether. Instead, organizations and managers should be aware of these biases and work to create a more inclusive environment where both men and women can benefit from the positive effects of humor.
The study’s findings have important implications for workplace dynamics and the promotion of gender equality. By understanding and addressing these biases, organizations can create a more equitable and inclusive environment for all employees.
