Relating Sense of Humor to the Five Factor Theory Personality Domains and Facets

The present study examined the relationships between the broad, multidimensional view of humor using the factors of the Multidimensional Sense of Humor Scale (MSHS) and all of the Five Factor Theory (FFT) personality domains and specific facets. Results indicated a number of significant personality facets related to the Humor Production and Social Use factor. The strongest were Assertiveness, Activity-level, Cheerfulness, Modesty (negative), Self-Efficacy and Intellect. Cheerfulness was also related to Humor Appreciation, and Excitement Seeking to Humor Attitude. Humor Production related to a number of different personality traits consistent with previous research on styles of humor. These results provide a broad view of sense of humor and its relation to the specific facets of the FFT. Future directions of study are encouraged using the specific facets of the FFT and more precise study of humor outside humor production or humor style.