ABSTRACT
Humor may be an important factor in the effectiveness of power strategies. This study investigates the effects of humor on the original power bases developed by French & Raven (1959}. Reward, Coercion, Legitimate Dependent, Expert, Referent, and Legitimate Position powers were examined in both humorous and non-humorous conditions. Participants completed a survey, in which they rated the effectiveness of a supervisor using the power bases and humor conditions in a workplace scenario. The survey indicated that the use of humor had a negative effect in the Coercive, Expert, and Legitimate Dependent power conditions. This paper discusses implications for future research concerning the use of humor and social influence techniques.
