Abstract
The role of humor in counseling and psychotherapy has become an area of keen interest for researchers in the field. Experts increasingly recognize humor’s positive role in therapy, but its application must be executed carefully. The present thesis reviews the literary insight into the therapeutic use of humor from the standpoints of Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioural, and Humanistic/Existential perspectives.
The primary purpose of humor is to be a social lubricant, helping the client and therapist establish a strong therapeutic alliance. In this regard, humor adheres to ethical standards of safe practice, meaning it should be appropriate and tailored to specific client circumstances. Next, the paper argues that humourous exchange can be produced inappropriately, particularly topical in counseling today. The paper also reviews the positive aspects of accurate humor implementation, such as alleviating stress and enabling effective coping mechanisms. Lastly, the literature reveals that humor is an effective therapeutic strategy that can be utilized in various settings.
Introduction
A growing number of practitioners have voiced collective interest in the role of humor in counseling and psychotherapy. Indeed, Corey (2013, p.31) stated that therapy is a responsible endeavor, but it need not be a deadly serious one. Furthermore, humor seems pertinent and applicable to virtually all therapeutic approaches, spanning from psychodynamic and humanistic/existential-oriented clinicians to those with a foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy. For this reason, chapter one will cover the theoretical bases of humor within counseling. Likewise, historically, there appears to have been much enthusiasm for the use of humor within therapy. This is evidenced by the many books and papers written on the topic by famous therapists such as Freud (1960), Ellis (2007), and Frankl (1975). On the other hand, outside of anecdotal evidence and personal experience, the amount of empirical research on the use of humor in therapy is undeniably little by comparison. Nevertheless, given humor’s complex nature, such controlled research is not always easily acquired.
Moreover, chapter two will look at the practical applications of humor. Perhaps not unexpectedly, humor appears relatively often in all kinds of social exchanges, and psychotherapy is no exception. Similarly, humor can be applied both appropriately and inappropriately. Thus, practitioners involved in this area of study fluctuate between those who ardently support its use to those who maintain a more skeptical position. Hence, topics to be examined include humor to bolster the therapeutic alliance and humor as a potential diagnostic/assessment tool before concluding with possible risks involved in its use. Finally, chapter three will touch on humours innumerable benefits to one’s overall health and well-being, including reduced stress, greater resilience and decreased depressive and anxiety related symptoms (“Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humour”, 2021). In essence, this thesis intends to argue for humor’s therapeutic value, provided it is incorporated sensibly.
Chapter One – Perspectives on Humour from Three Core Therapeutic Modalities
Psychodynamic Perspective (Sigmund Freud)
Freud’s influence on mental health highlighted the unconscious processes that shape our actions (Christoff & Dauphin, 2020). His psychoanalytic model deals with the psyche’s metaphoric structures, specifically the id, ego, and superego. The id relates to ideas of pleasure and desires, the ego with the individual and realism, and the superego with morality and integrity. The pressure between these three structures desires balance and freeing of mental energy to preserve a strong structure (Boag, 2014). As such, ‘humor may be one way to release sexual energy and provide catharsis’ (Gibson, 2019, p.187).
When observing a client’s dysfunctional behaviors, therapists may consider three ideas concerning the Freudian theory of humor. Firstly, humor conceals taboo feelings of superiority or sexual desire, which can induce guilt. In this way, humor acts as ‘a guilty pleasure’. Secondly, humor can obscure feelings of aggression or hostility that one may not consciously admit to. Thus, ‘humour is a way to consciously express repressed feelings’. Finally, humor can act as a healthy defense mechanism by gently redirecting aggressive impulses. This way, one will be less likely to engage in aggressive and harmful acts (Gibson, 2019, p.188).
Guilty Desires
Delighting in humor may yield guilt or incite tension in our superego since that element contradicts its moralistic needs. One could also feel guilt around generating and appreciating humor because it asserts dominance or superiority over others (Ferguson & Ford, 2008). Freud remarked that a superior state of mind fed aggression (Ferguson & Ford, 2008). Aggression is typically considered inappropriate in social exchanges; therefore, conflict arises when the id wishes to be hostile. However, the ego and superego prevent this undesirable behavior from occurring (Freud, 1960). In this way, humor excuses such hostility by masking it as acceptable (Christoff & Dauphin, 2020). Such humor may appear friendly, but it is, in fact, disparaging. In other words, this behavior could be considered passive-aggressive. Such a cover-up lets one be offensive or spiteful, and because it is ‘just a joke’, one’s guilt is mitigated (Gibson, 2019).
Voicing of repressed feelings
Freud hypothesized that feelings that the ‘conscious mind cannot handle are repressed, placed out of our awareness’ (Gibson, 2019, p.189). Nevertheless, these blocked feelings are the root of many client struggles and are exposed in other ways. Freud claimed that humor was an efficient means to disburse psychic energy or maintain balance so that the system’s objectives were achieved by voicing unconscious wishes through humor instead of expressing one’s genuine feelings (Christoff & Dauphin, 2020; Freud, 1960; Swaminath, 2006). One may not consciously accept our preference for aggression, superiority, or sexual impulses, so one engages in-jokes to disguise one’s guilt-ridden desires (Christoff & Dauphin, 2020). This idea contrasts with the earlier theme because, in the previous point, lessening of guilt inspired humor, whereas repressed material provoked it in this case. For instance, this concept of repressed thoughts stated through humor relates to the vagueness inherent in prejudiced or sexist jokes (Mallett et al., 2016). If one likes to express or hear a racist joke, one might reason that one is not racist because it is merely a joke, but one may be racist and compensating through employing such humor. Freud’s model succumbs to the idea that unconscious motivations clarify this humor’s enjoyment (Gibson, 2019).
An Adaptive defence mechanism
Lastly, Freud’s concept of balance between ego, superego, and id offers an additional role of humor. If the id wishes to assert its sexual desires or hostile feelings, but the superego creates guilt and stops these from accessing the conscious mind, pressure builds within the psyche (Christoff & Dauphin, 2020). Gibson (2019, p.190) notes that much like ‘the release of steam in a steam-engine train, this tension must be released’. Otherwise, ‘the system malfunctions’. Thus, Freud claimed that laughter reduced this buildup of tension. In this way, as an alternative to the client’s physical aggression, which would be considered maladaptive behavior, humor acts as an acceptable means to deal with the conflict between these three structures (Connor et al., 2019). Hence, the well-known expression ‘blowing off steam’ is recognized by many people today (Gibson, 2019, p.190). Given the potential roles of humor above, the author believes that the therapy room might act as a haven for clients to gratify these desires. In this view, client humor ought to be encouraged in therapy. Moreover, humor made on behalf of the client during therapy sessions may help the therapist understand and give insight into the client’s fundamental issues (See Chapter Two for further discussion).
Cognitive-Behavioural Perspective (Albert Ellis)
One other familiar style of therapy that embraces humor is Rational-Emotive-Behaviour Therapy (REBT), founded by Albert Ellis (Dryden & Branch, 2008; Ellis & Dryden, 2007; Saper, 1987). While Freud may have examined humor and its connection to the unconscious, Ellis intentionally used humor to help clients alter irrational beliefs and self-sabotaging behavior (Saper, 1987). Consequently, the therapy aims to test and refute clients’ erroneous beliefs and substitute them with more accurate and flexible expectations and perspectives. One method of accomplishing this is for the therapist to practice humorous hyperbole and even irony to call attention to the ridiculousness of clients’ unreasonable belief systems (Ellis & Miller, 2012). In a video interview, Ellis said that ‘people disturb themselves; they don’t get disturbed’ (Psychotherapy.net, 2012).
He later claimed that individuals ‘first take adversities, hassles, and life problems seriously, which is good, but then they take them too seriously and lose their sense of humor’ (Psychotherapy.net, 2012). Likewise, Ellis believed individuals unsettled themselves through irrational thinking patterns, feelings, and actions. The heart of humor exerts itself on all three levels (Ellis & Dryden, 2007; Psychotherapy.net, 2012; Saper, 1987; Sultanoff, 2013). Cognitively, it astutely and persuasively offers a fresh perspective to the all-or-nothing and inflexible client. Emotively, humor brings pleasure and laughter, makes life seem meaningful, and actively interrupts feelings of despair and apathy. Behaviorally, it inspires different actions, such as independently generating direct opposition to anxiety, and supports people in relaxation through temporary distraction (Saper, 1987). Thus, Saper (1987, p.361) asserts that ‘if clients can even briefly experience amusement, it can serve as an antidote to client sadness’. Finally, therapist humor can help clients accept life’s uncertainties and foster a healthy open-mindedness to the world around them (Psychotherapy.net, 2012).
Nevertheless, detractors of REBT’s extensive use of humor allude to the fact that it seems to endorse an aggressive and confrontational approach to therapy (Ellis & Miller, 2012). While Ellis’s humor practice looks rather aggressive, he acknowledged its potential for harm by stressing the importance of implementing humor in a manner that acknowledged and accepted clients despite their mistakes and shortcomings (Ellis & Miller, 2012). The author would agree that given the possibility of client harm, such humor would indeed need to be administered very carefully and competently, if at all.
Humanistic-Existential Perspective (Maslow, Rogers, May, Frankl, Farrelly)
There have been numerous approaches to the use of humor under the Humanistic/Existential umbrella. Some therapists have created therapies where humor is the chief component of the approach, whereas others have used humor as a therapeutic technique (Frankl, 1975; Rutherford, 1994; Saper, 1987). According to such approaches, a humorous outlook on life is not only a fundamental measure of mental health but also a method of preserving and supporting healthy living (Martin & Ford, 2007). For instance, Maslow and Rogers agreed that humor is one characteristic spotted in fully functioning individuals. Such a personality trait is a mark of a healthy mind in that one can laugh at difficult life circumstances and still move on with one’s life (Dziegielewski et al., 2003).
Likewise, Existentialism suggests that humor is freedom from the confines of reality and life’s hardships (Gibson, 2019). Client behavior that could appear counterproductive to one’s goals can result from such a loss of freedom (Gibson, 2019). Hence, Gibson (2019, p.195) states that one is healthy and content when one is ‘free and not slaves or prisoners of our feelings and desires’. Similarly, Existential psychologist Rollo May specified how humor works as a ‘healthy way of feeling a ‘distance’ between oneself and the problem, a way of standing off and looking at one’s problem with perspective’ (May 2009, p.24). Another renowned therapeutic practice that has been regarded as being built on humour is ‘paradoxical intention’, established by Existentialist Viktor Frankl (Frankl, 1975). In this procedure, clients are advised to overstate the bleakness of their problems (Saper, 1987). For instance, Frankl would often ‘tell a joke to depressed clients, let them laugh, and then tell them they could not laugh! Why not? Because laughter is incompatible with depression’ (Rutherford, 1994, p.213).
Furthermore, Frank Farrelly’s Provocative therapy is an adapted version of the Person-Centred approach (Kemp, 2015; Saper, 1987). Saper (1987, p.360) describes how therapists in this therapy style attempt to be provocative and self-revealing by using methods such as ‘exaggeration, mimicry, ridicule, distortion, sarcasm, irony, and jokes’. Such techniques bring attention to self-sabotaging behaviors while simultaneously exposing client anxieties and self-limiting beliefs (Saper, 1987). Given this supposed client-centered approach, the author would question its perspective on core conditions such as client support, warmth, and unconditional positive regard. Fortunately, Farrelly responded to this concern with some clarifications. Firstly, the provocative therapist is not mocking the client personally but is instead teasing their ineffective behaviours. Secondly, Farrelly agreed that his methods might initially trigger unease in clients but made a distinction between short-term pain and long-term gain. ‘Often in therapy, a distinction must be made between short-term cruelty with long-term kindness versus short-term kindness and long-term detriment’ (Saper, 1987, p.361). Despite such reassurances, one would still envisage this therapeutic approach as potentially having more significant risks than its more conservative counterparts. Hence, the author would have similar reservations about this therapy style to the ones held for Ellis’s humorous techniques in REBT.
Now that some theoretical backgrounds of humor have been observed, one will examine the clinical functions of humor as it relates to current counseling practice.
Chapter Two – Practising Humour in the Therapy Room
Establishing a therapeutic relationship – humor as a social lubricant
One of the critical elements of successful therapy is the strength of the therapeutic relationship (Cooper, 2008). As such, humor has the power to connect people and enhance the therapeutic relationship, for it recognizes the client’s and counselor’s shared mortality (Dryden & Branch, 2008; Richman, 1996). In regular life, humor commonly forms a bond between people and encourages relationship development. Likewise, humor can have similar results in the therapeutic environment and support understanding (Dziegielewski et al., 2003). Hence, humor ‘can be one of the sweetest builders of a warm, connected therapeutic relationship, giving a shared language to both people in the dyad’ (Evans, 2015, p.129).
Moreover, humor can give way to a more ‘normal’ dialogue, which usually contributes significantly to a client’s comfort level in the therapy room (Haig, 1986; Martin & Ford, 2007). As a result, clients who reveal little throughout the conversation as a form of self-defense may be more willing to be vulnerable (Dionigi & Canestrari, 2018). Similarly, collective disclosures via humorous observations or jokes allow for confidence to be built in the therapeutic relationship and afford the therapist deeper client empathy (Dziegielewski et al., 2003; Sultanoff, 2013). Likewise, a client’s use of humor in therapy can be a reliable gauge of the strength and trust inherent in the relationship. One is much more likely to trust another if one is to be brave enough to appear foolish in the presence of another (Dziegielewski et al., 2003). Digney (2014, p.19) speaks to this point by arguing that people instinctively know when someone is concerned for us. Such care is often revealed via the attention one receives. A safe and open environment is cast when one can partake in laughter, share a joke, or engage in humorous exchange. The author points out that such humour indirectly communicates the message ‘I care about you’. He maintains that such indirectness can be more helpful than explicitly stating it to someone.
Additionally, Mosak (1987) explains how private jokes often develop between therapist and client in a long-term relationship. The ‘In-joke’ between therapist and client conveys the same message as it does for any in-group, that ‘we are in a special relationship,’ thus maintaining and increasing rapport (Mosak, 1987, p.39). Equally, Mosak (1987, p.27) describes how Adlerians would understand therapy as an ‘educational and re-educational process’ and believe that knowledge accumulation ensues more freely in a stress-free environment. As such, ‘The low level of tension facilitates a cooperative task-solving approach’ (Mosak, 1987, p.27).
Furthermore, humor is a method of communication. Brooks et al. (2020) and Haig (1986) discuss banter as a communication tool that clients may use in therapy, requiring a therapist to reciprocate in such an approach. Ultimately, such banter would aim to enhance the therapeutic work/relationship. Haig (1986) and Prerost (1984) note that youngsters may have difficulties engaging in therapy if they feel somewhat patronized, so banter may reduce anxiety in this area as well. Finally, ‘humour is chemical and wired into our neurology’. Thus, ‘laughter sets up the release of oxytocin and vasopressin in the brain, peptide hormones linked to bonding and attachment’, further highlighting humour’s social function (Digney, 2014, p.7).
Humour as a tool for client assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention
Assessment/Diagnosis
Humor made on behalf of the client often gives therapists valuable information about their insights, emotional state, attitudes, and expectations. By considering such information, therapists may achieve a more thorough client conception (Haig, 1986; Martin & Ford, 2007). For instance, Gibson (2019, p.206) believed that ‘clients’ humor may reveal conflict (aggressive humor), control (taking away therapist’s control of the talk), or concealment (avoiding issues).’ Haig (1986) also listed how humor can be used positively in supporting client diagnosis. For example, any response to or use of humor may specify a client’s emotional maturity, worsening of symptoms, or transferential material. Hence, laughter can be an insightful admission by the individual participating in the laughing (Mosak, 1987). In this way, German novelist Goethe’s claim that ‘Men show their character in nothing more clearly than in what they think laughable’ appears quite apt (Martin & Ford, 2007). Additionally, Goldin & Bordan (1999) discuss how different therapeutic modalities might view a client’s lack of humor. For example, adult children of alcoholic parents might have trouble having fun and relaxing in social settings. Likewise, in Transactional Analysis, a client’s inability to enjoy humor could indicate an ego state dysfunction stemming from unduly punitive parenting.
Therapeutic Intervention
Furthermore, humor can be a valuable intervention technique. Like all therapeutic interventions, it must be implemented for the possible benefit it might have for the client (Dryden & Branch, 2008; Ellis & Dryden, 2007; Frankl, 1965; Franzini, 2001). As such, best practice would indicate that therapists do not make jokes at the client’s expense or practice humor to ease their own anxiety during a session (Dryden & Branch, 2008). Gibson & Tantam (2018, p.71) claim that humor can also act as a catalyst for internal movement within a client, ‘resulting in a change of perspective, values and behavior.’ In this way, humor can allow clients to view dysfunctional thinking and behavior patterns more positively and expansively. (Dryden & Branch, 2008; Haig, 1986) Likewise, Mosak (1987) argues that therapists may implement jokes to generate momentum in periods when therapy has plateaued. It can act as a method of challenging clients on possible false agendas (Mosak, 1987).
Moreover, jokes let therapists practice an interpretation style that clients may perceive as less inauspicious than a more traditional interpretation. Hence, a straight-faced interpretation may be less tolerable than one expressed humorously. Such an approach might likewise allow one to state the cause of client difficulties more tactfully (Ellis & Dryden, 2007). Mosak (1987) points out that all forms of psychotherapy have the potential to be hazardous. Nevertheless, if therapy is to flourish, both therapist and client must take risks. ‘Too safe, and there is no reason to move; too risky, and there is no support for movement’ (Mosak, 1987, p.42). In this manner, Mosak (1987) argues that humour carries no more dangers with it than any other form of therapist interpretation. Perhaps then the critical component in humour’s practical use is therapist timing (Goldin & Bordan, 1999). Humor used too hastily can give the impression of incompetence or somebody who is almost immune to the client’s concerns. If used too late, it can appear unrelated to the present moment (Evans, 2015; Goldin & Bordan, 1999).
Potential risks of implementing therapeutic humor
Some critics claim that humor used as a technique is best left out of therapy. The detractors argue that too many hazards exist and are not worth the risks involved. In other words, there is a higher chance of client harm and wrongdoing (Shaughnessy & Wadsworth, 1992). Moreover, there are occasions when clients use laughter ‘to cover up anxiety or escape from the experience of facing threatening material’ (Corey, 2013, p.31). Thus, the therapist must differentiate between humor that diverts and humor that progresses therapy (Corey, 2013).
Furthermore, as cited by (Rutherford, 1994), Kubie voiced strong concerns regarding the use of humor in psychoanalysis, believing that it could inhibit free associations. He also thought that therapists might use humor to lessen their own anxieties and fears around specific clients. For instance, therapists might occasionally feel uncomfortable around a client’s presenting issue and, therefore, implement humor as a means of coping instead of addressing issues openly. In such situations, the therapist could use humor to sidetrack the client and indirectly change the direction of the discussion. When therapists engage in humor, clients may also get the impression that they cannot voice feelings of annoyance and unwillingly feel pushed into compliance. Consequently, Martin & Ford (2007) advise therapists to exercise some introspectivity and consider whether they are using humor as a form of self-defense. Finally, where humor is misused, clients may become confused and question the therapist’s sincerity (Rutherford, 1994).
Haig (1986) also reminds us of humor’s double-edged nature by listing several ways in which humor is likely to be unhelpful. One such client is the ‘people pleaser’ who might use humor to gain therapist acceptance. For instance, the client may attempt to stroke the therapist’s ego by amusing them or, more importantly, hiding any potential resentment felt towards them. On the other hand, the therapist may use humor in an egotistical manner to validate their intelligence or use dry humor to criticize the client. Moreover, as cited by (Franzini, 2001), Kuhlman argues that poorly timed humor may alter a client’s feelings when expressing such feelings would have been therapeutic. In this way, Goldin et al. (2006) state that humor is not appropriate when clients are suffering from feelings of depression or going through the grieving process. Similarly, the authors recommend that therapists be suspicious of client humor that seems to support unhelpful behaviors. In such examples, therapists need to abstain from coercing clients. Engaging with the client in this humor sends the message that one supports such behavior, which goes against therapy and client growth goals (Goldin et al., 2006).
Nonetheless, Evans (2015) argues that this shadier side to humor is one therapists rarely acknowledge. ‘When humor tips over into cruelty, mockery, snideness or sarcasm, it can be experienced as wounding, excluding, judging and devastating by those who feel like the target’ (Evans, 2015, p.130). Such is the case, especially for individuals who have chronically found themselves at the wrong end of others’ gags in the past. As such, they may be overanxious around others’ intentions, seeing genuine jokes as covering for concealed disclosures intended to insult (Evans, 2015). Similarly, when the therapeutic relationship has not been established, the chance for client harm is higher as our humorous intentions may be misread. Consequently, Evans (2015, p.131) highlights the below three questions that practitioners can reflect on before implementing humor.
- Has the client frequently experienced humor used as a weapon against them?
- Do they have a deep history embedded with shame, feeling humiliated, shy, or highly anxious?
- Are there cultural, language, or gender considerations that may increase the client’s likelihood of misunderstanding?
Moreover, Richman (1996) and Maples et al. (2001) echo the above sentiments, advising counselors working with individuals of diverse cultural backgrounds to be aware of the different meanings potentially associated with humor. Not all cultures express and appreciate humor in the same way. Interestingly, Salameh, as cited by (Saper, 1987) established a five-point rating scale for categorising the extent humour was beneficial or damaging in therapy, possibly as a result of such client protection issues. The scale commences with destructive humor. Such humor would consist of negative and mean-spirited comments designed to hurt the client. Following on then from this are harmful humor, minimally helpful humor, very helpful humor, and outstanding humor. This last level (Level 5) is defined as empathetic humor that occurs naturally and helps create client change and growth.
Hence, chapter three will look at these more beneficial aspects of humor as it relates to psychological well-being.
Chapter Three – Humour and its Role in Psychological Wellbeing
Humor as a coping mechanism for stress
Research has offered extensive backing for the idea that humor regulates emotions that positively relate to mental well-being (Abel, 1998; Abel & Maxwell, 2002; Akram et al., 2020; Cann et al., 2000; Cann & Collette, 2014; Crawford & Caltabiano, 2011; Kuiper, 2012; Berchtold et al., 2019; Samson & Gross, 2012; Tugade et al., 2004). Firstly, humor lessens the harmful impact of stressful events by generating an optimistic viewpoint for understanding worrying events (Conversano et al., 2010; Dziegielewski et al., 2003; Morgan et al., 2019). Secondly, it weakens unwanted emotional responses to the demands of life by discouraging negative ideas in place of positive ones (Martin & Ford, 2007; Samson & Gross, 2012). As American singer Lena Horne once claimed, ‘It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it’ (Gibson, 2019). Thus, humor allows individuals to reevaluate stressful events in lighter, less alarming ways and subsequently experience less emotional suffering.
Numerous authors have echoed this stance (Abel, 1998; Abel & Maxwell, 2002; Ellis & Dryden, 2007; Frankl, 2004; Freud, 1960; May, 2009; Samson & Gross, 2012). Moreover, today’s society consists of several stressors, and client issues may present in many forms (Yim, 2016). For instance, physical stressors might include headaches, emotional stressors such as anxiety and depression, and social stressors such as relationship breakups (Gibson, 2019). Likewise, authors Boyle & Joss-Reid (2004) describe how humor helps healthy and unhealthy individuals manage stress for different reasons. For example, hospital patients practice humor to endure long-lasting pain, college students practice humor to lessen the anxiety associated with assignments, and healthy individuals use humor to preserve energy and mental well-being. Cheng & Wang (2014) also suggested that humor restores one’s psychological reserves that often become depleted by responsibilities one finds discouraging. In this way, they argue that humor supports a persistent and resilient outlook on life as it is both physically and emotionally invigorating.
Humor as a coping mechanism for depression and anxiety
A few authors maintain that undergoing adverse life events makes one more susceptible to anxiety and depression (Gibson, 2019; Hassanzadeh et al., 2017). Nonetheless, if one uses humor to deal with such events, one can reduce these unwelcome emotions (Gibson, 2019). In other words, ‘coping humor can moderate the relationship between stress and negative moods’ (Gibson, 2019, p.157). Similarly, on a more practical note, humor is perhaps a useful coping tool for the simple reason that it is not easy to feel happy and sad concurrently (Gibson, 2019). Martin & Lefcourt (1983) also studied whether partaking in coping humor (as categorized on their Coping Humour Scale) allowed people to escape these universal emotions. For instance, their study established that when adverse life events such as losing a loved one or job arose for individuals, those with high CHS scores exhibited lower negative moods than those with low CHS scores. Given that such emotions are unhealthy when experienced chronically, these results might suggest that some form of humor in times of hardship is worth implementing in one’s life.
Moreover, Yim (2016) spoke of today’s increased stress levels induced by tougher competition and socioeconomic stressors. The author insists that such stress is detrimental to one’s mental health, leading to depression and lower living standards while simultaneously impacting one’s self-esteem (Yim, 2016). Further, in episodes of endogenous depression, he states how laughter can positively alter dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. This has noteworthy implications for the biological origins of depression, where ‘neurotransmitters in the brain, such as norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin’ are impaired. In other words, ‘there is something wrong in the mood control circuit of the brain’ (Yim, 2016, p.247).
Adaptive and maladaptive humor styles
Although humor appears to be a significant coping device for stress, it might not be a good strategy if it serves a dysfunctional purpose (Abel, 2002). For instance, humor that is excessively self-deprecating or employed for self-protection and evasion purposes may be linked to less effective coping methods (Gibson, 2019). In contrast, humor that allows for objectivity and detachment between oneself and the problem may be favorable to coping (Martin, 2001; May 2009; Berchtold et al., 2019). For this reason, a few authors (Kuiper & Leite, 2010; Leist & Müller, 2012; Martin et al., 2003) have analyzed four humor styles that mirror ways individuals regularly use humor in their lives. Two are understood to be ‘adaptive or advantageous for personal wellbeing (self-enhancing humor) or interpersonal relationships (affiliative humor), and the other two maladaptive or disadvantageous to personal wellbeing (self-defeating humor) or interpersonal relationships (aggressive humor)’ (Martin & Ford, 2007, p.241). These findings suggest a client’s style and why they use humor is important in many interpersonal problems. Hence, it would be practical for therapists to distinguish between potentially adaptive and maladaptive humor styles in humorous interactions with clients.
Moreover, Saxon et al. (2016) conducted a study on gender differences that suggests men and women practice humor differently. While men and women used humor to cope in equal measures, men voiced their emotions through humor, whereas women implemented humor to acquire emotional backing. Though such findings may be useful to bear in mind while working with both sexes, one must be careful not to extrapolate these results beyond this one study.
Furthermore, given the seemingly growing use of humor in therapy by practitioners, the author believes the connection between humor and well-being needs to be examined further. In other words, the current literature is inconclusive as to whether a strong sense of humor promotes enhanced coping and greater emotional well-being or whether a great sense of humor is the product of healthy self-esteem and resourceful coping skills (Martin & Ford, 2007). Lastly, humor undeniably provides robust support against the adverse effects of stress and negative moods such as depression and anxiety. That said, one would be misguided to presume that all clients require is humor to manage these symptoms, and all will be good. In other words, more research is needed to conclude whether humor is superior to other types of stress relievers. On the other hand, individuals often come to counseling to improve their well-being and relieve stress of some kind. Thus, it would be prudent for both therapists and clients alike to contemplate the use of humor, given the qualities mentioned above in this chapter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, humor is an integral component of social interaction that presents a range of emotional advantages to an individual’s well-being. Many individuals come to therapy with the weight of severe mental health issues that must be addressed. Thus, humor has the potential to accelerate the treatment process to a significant degree. For instance, it can significantly contribute to the working mechanisms involved in severe cases of anxiety, depression, and stress. As such, Sigmund Freud recognized the therapeutic potential of humor in reducing tension (Connor et al., 2019). Proponents of the Cognitive-Behavioural Perspective also state that problems should not be taken too seriously while acknowledging that the use of humor cannot be excessive. Lastly, the Humanistic perspective considers therapeutic humor to correspond to client-centered ideas. Therefore, this approach is underpinned by considerable theoretical background.
Humor also enables clients to gain a new perspective on their concerns, guiding them through dark points in their lives toward readjustment and healing. In this way, it can help individuals remain hopeful and direct attention to more positive, light-hearted aspects of life. Moreover, leaders in the psychotherapy field state that humor positively affects both parties’ therapeutic process, as it enables improved assessment of clients’ personalities, which, in turn, leads to more specific counseling strategies (Haig, 1986; Martin & Ford, 2007). Conversely, the risks inherent in the inappropriate use of this tool should also be considered. To this end, the concept of therapeutic humor has a range of opponents who criticize it for lacking professionalism. According to such authors, the humourous exchange is not suitable for discussing serious matters, such as mental health and related issues (Goldin et al., 2006). There is a fine line between positive, therapy-progressing humor and inappropriate mockery. The therapist’s level of proficiency, among other skills, involves being able to differentiate between these two concepts in order to implement humor effectively. Therefore, this tool should be seen as another therapeutic approach, which is, while helpful, not universally applicable. Finally, humor unlocks new opportunities in therapy by providing therapists with a tool of immense potential. If a therapist can adopt humor judiciously, its positive effects will soon become evident. People naturally desire laughter and positivity, and astute therapists must take advantage of this idea in therapy. As Rufus Wainwright once said, ‘There’s no life without humor. It can make the wonderful moments of life truly glorious, and it can make tragic moments bearable.
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