Humor Theories and the Physiological Benefits of Laughtermore by Julia Wilkins
https://www.academia.edu/477378/Humor_Theories_and_the_Physiological_Benefits_of_Laughter
FEATURES
Humor Theories and the PhysiologicalBenefits of Laughter
■
Julia Wilkins, PhD
■
Amy Janel Eisenbraun, MS
There are 3 main theories used to explain the functions of humor: (1) the relief theory, (2) the incongruity theory, and(3) the superiority theory. While these theories focus on the specific role that humor plays for people in situationssuch as dealing with misfortune, making sense of rule violations, and bonding with others, we propose thatunderlying each of these theories are the physiological benefits of laughter. We draw on findings from empiricalstudies on laughter to demonstrate that these physiological benefits occur regardless of the theory that is used toexplain the humor function. Findings from these studies have important implications for nurse practitioners workingin hospice settings, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals.
.............. PDF ...........
https://www.academia.edu/attachments/2124429/download_file