The Elephant in the Room is Laughing: A Facilitator Looks at Humor’s Impact on Group Process & Human Resources Presenter: Izzy Gesell, M.ED, CSP

A cognitive skill aimed at adding levity & lightheartedness to life OR diminishing fear and stress.

In control & command Confident & competent More receptive to feedback Resilient

1. Social lubricant 2. Expressing aggression or hostility 3. Search for information ( Paul McGhee, 1976 )

1. Surprise 2. Superiority 3. Biological 4. Psychoanalytical Patricia Keith-Spiegel (1972)

Groups are systems of interwoven individual relationships.

Getting a “feel” for the emotional climate of the group.

“ The collective belief of group members that the group can and will be effective; created through interaction.” “A group’s perceived capability to perform.”

 Shield- The Protector. ◦ Overcome awkwardness. Use to set audience at ease so you can maintain control. ◦ Reassure the insecure. ◦ Self-deprecating/effacing

 Weapon- The Destroyer ◦ Of ins vs. outs/ outs vs. ins ◦ Against the “other”

 Bridge- The Connector ◦ Enjoyable interaction ◦ Shared perspective

 Spotlight- The Announcer ◦ Highlight self or an issue ◦ Control a situation ◦ Status

Mental Humor Strengthens My… Emotional Physical Spiritual Abilities

What can you take from YOUR “humor profile” and bring to your work and personal life? Collect humor as it comes it comes to you. (quotes, situations, jokes, stories). Editing is 2 nd, step not 1 st. (Personal blooper reel) Share the humor in as many modalities as possible Now What? Implementation!

Think About 1 or 2 things you heard, felt, or thought today that made a difference for you. What skill, tactic or attitude will you implement? What is your next ACTION STEP to help you move towards your desired state? BY WHEN will it be done? Take-Aways

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