What is the Primary Focus of our Research?

 

Humor is something we share with others. And in the context of most of our relationships we find many funny things to laugh at together every day. Because humor is an inherently social activity, humor presents countless questions of social psychological importance and relevance. The research of our lab has been dedicated to addressing such questions. We consider all of these questions important and “fair game” to chase down through scientific investigation. Humor functions as a double-edged sword in social relationships. It has a “DARK SIDE ” and a “ LIGHT SIDE ”

 

On the "DARK SIDE" , disparagement humor—humor that denigrates—can promote discrimination against targeted groups, as well as experiences of objectification and identity threat among targeted by such humor. Some of the “dark side” questions we have been addressing relate to:

(a) Disparagement humor as a releaser of prejudice

(b) Sexist humor and self-objectification among women

(c) Sexist humor and stereotype threat among women

(d) Sexist humor and women’s social influence and persuasiveness

 

On the "LIGHT SIDE"  humor is instrumental in coping with stress, and promoting happiness. Some of the “light side” questions we address relate to:

(a) Humor and coping with stressful events

(b) The relationship between personality, humor styles and happiness

 

Other topics of  interest

(a) Religion and Prejudice 

(B)  Unintentional racism and stereotype threat in educational settings

 

 

 

 

Coverage in the Popular Press

Sexist Humor No Laughing Matter, Psychologist Says

Study: Sexist Humor is No Joke

Sexist Humor No Laughing Matter, Researcher Says

Being Smart About "Dumb Blonde" Jokes

Get a Sense of Humor!

Does Racist Humor Promote Racism?

The Allure and Danger of Comedy Roasts