Abstract
Purpose. The first purpose of this exploratory study was to identify ways in which principals use humor to lead their schools. The second purpose was to identify the ways principals perceive that humor contributes to their leadership. Methodology. The research was descriptive. Ten principals were included in this exploratory study. The data were collected by survey and during face-to-face interviews. Both qualitative and quantitative analysis were used to identify, classify, and summarize the predominant leadership behaviors related to the use of humor and the contribution humor makes to leadership. Findings. Principals who use humor to lead their schools: (1) help teachers and staff work together as a cohesive group; (2) feel more a part of the staff; (3) seem more approachable to the teachers, support staff, parents, and students; (4) are better able to create a more positive climate at the school site; (5) improve their interpersonal interaction with teachers and staff; (6) help staff enjoy work; and (7) change the work environment from a negative one to a more positive one. Conclusions. Five conclusions about principals who use humor to lead their schools are suggested from these data: (1) principals are more likely to gain the support and participation of their teachers and staff; (2) humor has a positive, humanizing effect on the principal which may, in turn, decrease the status and authority barriers that develop between the principal and the teachers and staff; (3) with the ever-increasing internal and external pressures educational leaders face, humor helps principals maintain a more balanced perspective; (4) principals who use humor are able to maintain a positive tone at the school which enables teachers and staff to be more productive; and (5) humor contributes to the effectiveness of the principal's leadership at the school site. Recommendations. First, that county offices of education, school districts, and local sites identify the use of humor as an important component when hiring principals and advertise and screen for this behavior. Second, that professional development programs offer presentations and workshops for principals that focus on the professional and personal benefits of using humor as part of their leadership.