The Relational Humor Inventory: Functions of humor in close relationships

This study describes the development of a self-report measure of functional humor in relationships. Based on a review of the literature, items were formulated that would tap into possible functions of humor in marital interaction. People were asked to report on their own and their partner's use of humor in the marriage. Principal component analysis identified three subscales for both self and partner: Instrumental Humor, Positive Humor, and Negative Humor. Convergent and construct validity was tested with other humor and relationship measures. The Relational Humor Inventory proved to be a useful instrument for tapping important positive and negative relationship behaviors.