Association for Applied & Therapeutic Humor (AATH) embraces the healing power of humor, connection, and mutual respect.
As part of the AATH community, we each represent ourselves and uphold the shared values of the organization.
This Code of Conduct applies to all members, board members, volunteers, speakers, contractors, and guests participatingin AATH-sponsored activities or using AATH platforms. It exists to support safe, inclusive, and uplifting spaces for everyone.
Together, we can create an environment where humor truly heals, connects, and inspires.

 

Respect & Inclusion
• Treat all individuals with respect, regardless of background, identity, role, or opinion.
• Practice active listening and openness to different perspectives.
• Use humor in ways that lift others rather than put them down.
 

Humor with Care
• AATH celebrates the diversity of humor styles. Be mindful that what’s funny to one person may feel hurtful to another.
• Avoid jokes or comments that could be interpreted as discriminatory, harassing, or demeaning
(e.g., related to race, gender, age, ability, religion, or orientation).
• When in doubt, choose humor that connects, not divides.
 

Professional & Ethical Conduct
• Uphold high standards of honesty and integrity in all interactions.
• Share credit when collaborating and respect intellectual property.
• Avoid using AATH platforms primarily for self-promotion or sales.
 

Online Practices
• Use AATH’s online spaces (forums, social media, email lists, Zoom calls, etc.) for constructive dialogue, collaboration, and learning.
• Refrain from trolling, spamming, or dominating discussions.
• Keep confidentiality: do not share screenshots, recordings, or private information without permission.
 

In-Person Practices
• Contribute to a welcoming, collegial atmosphere at conferences, workshops, and events.
• Respect personal space, boundaries, and accessibility needs.
• Follow all event guidelines, including safety and health protocols.

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Addressing Concerns & Reporting
Our goal is unity, and we are strongest as an organization when individuals seek first to understand and communicate with respect.

• If you experience or witness behavior that may be inconsistent with this Code, you areencouraged—when appropriate and you feel comfortable—to address the concern directly withthe individual involved.
• If you do not feel comfortable doing so, or if the concern is not resolved, you are encouraged to report the matter through AATH’s designated reporting channel: ethics@aath.org.
• If a concern involves a Board Member, reports may be directed to the Executive Director at info@aath.org.

 

All reports will be reviewed promptly, fairly, and with discretion. Reports will be handled as confidentially as possible, consistent with a thorough and fair review process.
Retaliation against any individual who reports a concern in good faith or participates in a review process is strictly prohibited.
Individuals involved in a complaint will be provided with notice of the concern and an opportunity to respond before any formal disciplinary action is taken.

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Accountability and Disciplinary Actions
Our goal is growth, accountability, and maintaining a respectful community. When concerns arise, the following steps may be taken:

1. Gentle Reminder – For minor concerns, individuals may receive a reminder of this Code and expectations for conduct.
2. Private Conversation – For repeated or more serious concerns, a Board member or designated leader will discuss the issue privately.
3. Formal Review – If concerns persist or a written complaint is submitted, the matter may be reviewed formally by the Board or its designee.
4. Membership Action – In cases of ongoing or serious misconduct, the Board may take action up to and including revocation of membership, consistent with AATH bylaws.
 

Note: In cases involving serious misconduct (e.g., harassment, threats, or discrimination), the Board may move directly to formal review or membership action.
For formal hearing and expulsion procedures, refer to Article III of the AATH Bylaws.
 

Commitment to Growth
• Remember that humor and humanity are learning journeys. If you make a mistake, listen, learn, and adjust.
• Support fellow members in doing the same with kindness and encouragement.

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By joining and participating in AATH activities, events, or platforms, individual members agree to uphold this Code of Conduct in all AATH spaces, both online and in person.

AATH reserves the right to remove any individual from its events, programs, or platforms, without refund if applicable, for conduct that violates this Code of Conduct or disrupts the safety or integrity of the event.​​​