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Laughter-like behavior is not unique to humans, but humans do display a much more consistent and complex use of humor and laughter than other animals. [6] The evolution and functions of laughter and humor have been explored in an attempt to understand how and why humor and laughter have become part of human existence.
Relief theory suggests humor is a mechanism for pent-up emotions or tension through emotional relief. In this theory, laughter serves as a homeostatic mechanism by which psychological stress is reduced [1] [2] [6] Humor may thus facilitate ease of the tension caused by one's fears, for example.
Gelotology (from the Greek γέλως gelos "laughter") [1] is the study of laughter and its effects on the body, from a psychological and physiological perspective. Its proponents often advocate induction of laughter on therapeutic grounds in alternative medicine. The field of study was pioneered by William F. Fry of Stanford University. [2]
Laughter can evolve as a medium for self-preservation, detaching the individual from any adversity faced allowing for perceived control over uncomfortable situations. [ 9 ] Sad clown paradox is characterised by a cyclothymic temperament , which encourages the creation of light-hearted humour in a professional setting, despite inner turmoil. [ 10 ]
Lefcourt (2001) suggests that this perspective-taking humour is the most effective due to its ability to distance oneself from the situation of great stress. [95] Studies show that the use of laughter and humour creates a sense of relief of stress that can last up to 45 minutes post-laughter. [94]
Laughter has been used as a therapeutic tool for many years because it is a natural form of medicine. Laughter is available to everyone and it provides benefits to a person's physical, emotional, and social well being. Some of the benefits of using laughter therapy are that it can relieve stress and relax the whole body. [32]
Humour (Commonwealth English) or humor (American English) is the tendency of experiences to provoke laughter and provide amusement.The term derives from the humoral medicine of the ancient Greeks, which taught that the balance of fluids in the human body, known as humours (Latin: humor, "body fluid"), controlled human health and emotion.
Research suggests we listen to the same songs repeatedly because of musical nostalgia. One major study, published in the journal Memory & Cognition, found that music enables the mind to evoke memories of the past, known as music-evoked autobiographical memories .