Tension was apparent as the management team discussed changes to promotion requirements. But then Chris made a joke about Jake's white-knuckled grip on his pen, and the laughter seemed to lighten the mood. Chris was acting in a ______ role.
A. relational
B. task
C. production
D. social
E. maintenance

Maintenance role is defined as the role or act by an individual which is done to protect and maintain relationships in any group.It creates the constructive atmosphere of harmony and consistency.

According to the situation,Chris is maintaining the relationship among the group members through maintenance role.He is eliminating the tension in the group due to promotion by cracking joke so that team members can laugh and tension can be reduced.

Other options are incorrect because relational role related with keeping relation.Task and production role involve performing function and generation of output respectively.Social role is played in social environment relating with people and surrounding.

Thus, the correct option is option(E).