Research has shown that, while there is little evidence that it cures disease, there is plenty of evidence that it dispels negative emotions, increases well-being, enhances interpersonal relationships, and reduces pain. Humor does indeed seem to be one of the most powerful positive emotions.
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The International Society for Humor Studies
Yes, there really is a professional society for researchers who are studying humor. -
Humor Can Increase Hope, Research Shows
In this article at Science Daily, psychologist David H. Rosen describes results of his research, finding that “humor may competitively inhibit negative thoughts with positive ones, and in so doing, foster hope in people. Positive emotions, such as those arising from experiencing humor, can stimulate thought and prompt people to discard automatic behavioral responses and pursue more creative paths of thought and action.”
Ten things you should know about Humor
Humor and laughter are fundamentally social phenomena—we usually laugh with other people
Humor activates the pleasure center in the limbic system of the brain
Women are more attracted to men with a sense of humor—and men are more attracted to women who laugh at their jokes
Couples who often laugh together tend to have more satisfying relationships
Cheerfulness and humor are linked to greater resilience and better stress management
Laughter increases endorphins, which can reduce pain
Laughing and joking with others produces increased feelings of being connected with others
Smiling—even for no reason at all—can boost our mood
Laughter is as contagious as yawning
Humor and laughter can be used in aggressive and unhealthy ways as well as healthy ways
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