Humor – ein ernstzunehmender Gesundheitsfaktor

Gelotology (the study of laughter) demonstrates that humor and laughter have a positive impact on our physical and mental health and can be used as an effective coping strategy for stressful and unpleasant situations. This book comprehensively examines the direct and indirect effects of humor on health and how it can be effectively applied in various settings. It presents a well-thought-out concept that explores different perspectives from scientific disciplines (Public Health, Psychology, Communication Studies, etc.) and highlights potentials and areas of application across different life stages and domains.

Humor can:

• support the therapeutic relationship and positively influence patients' experiences, such as the use of clowns in hospitals and nursing homes, in palliative care, or in psychiatry/psychotherapy,
• contribute to enhancing well-being and even lead to improvements in vascular functions, strengthen the immune system, or increase pain tolerance,
• better reach target groups in health promotion and prevention interventions when combined with psychological methods and health communication,
• increase willingness to learn and health awareness from childhood through young adulthood,
• be learned and trained: stand-up comedy, humor training, and laughter yoga.

The book explains, through numerous practical examples, how humor interventions can be planned, implemented, and evaluated. Concrete recommendations and tips provide a direct connection to one's own daily routine. An indispensable reference work for all humor researchers and an inspiration for anyone looking to use humor more purposefully in their professional environment.