runningheadsensesofhumor.docVIP

Running Head: SENSES OF HUMOR Senses of Humor: The Validation of a Multi-factor Humor Appreciation Scale by Kimberly A. Neuendorf, Ph.D. k.neuendorf@ School of Communication Cleveland State University Cleveland, OH 44115 Paul Skalski, Ph.D. pskalski@ Department of Communication University of Minnesota-Duluth Duluth, MN 55812 and Jack Powers, M.A. jipowers@ S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications 215 University Place Syracuse University Syracuse, NY 13244 Paper presented to the Mass Communication Division of the International Communication Association, New Orleans, LA, May 2004 Senses of Humor: The Validation of a Multi-factor Humor Appreciation Scale Abstract To further understand individual differences in mass communication effects, this paper focuses on the development, testing, and validation of a “humor appreciation” scale. Several conceptual propositions are forwarded, including that humor appreciation is a multidimensional construct–i.e., multiple “senses of humor” are possible. Data from three surveys–two student surveys and a general population survey--are examined, with results indicating that sense of humor may properly be viewed as multidimensional, and emergent humor dimensions may be validated with preferences for particular media content. Findings are compared to the initial set of propositions, and the usefulness of senses of humor as a communication “trait” is explored. Senses of Humor: The Validation of a Multi-factor Humor Appreciation Scale Humorous stimuli come from a multitude of communication sources, ranging from interpersonal interactions to mediated entertainment. Although not often acknowledged as “serious” narrative content (e.g., note the dearth of comedies winning Academy Awards), nearly 50 percent of the top-ranked videos and highest-rated TV shows of all time are comedies (Zillmann Bryant, 1991). People clearly enjoy humor, but do all people enjoy all humor? Anecdotal evidence woul