Humor and (mental) health
Humor and (mental) health

Summary/Abstract: Clinical research seems to be focusing mainly on mental illness, with hardly any consideration for the role of sanity. And one could notice how the inability to mourn and overcome loss plays a central part in the health equation, whereas the inability to use humor or laughter does not raise any similar interest. As if on the stage, we experience a constant struggle between comedy and tragedy. The role of humor becomes important in daily areas of life, in socialising or choosing a life partner. There is also no doubt that clinical diagnosis alterations now take into account the occurence of humor. We even study gelotophobia – the pathological fear of being laughed at, which leads to the avoidance of situations where individuals feel exposed. However, there is still reluctance as to the inclusion of humor into the domains of scientific interest. The two major objections that are to be found in literature are: 1) Humor is not a serious subject – it’s a waste of time; 2) Humor is not a scientific subject – there are no appropiate methods to investigate relevant aspects of humor (Murray 1995). We actually plead for the idea that humor, with its intentional and spontaneous techniques, could lead to a better understanding of human nature.

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