Humor intervention programs

Humor has been conceptualized as a character strength that contributes to fulfillment in life. Various conceptualizations of humor (e.g., sense of humor, humor styles, coping humor, trait cheerfulness) have been related to a wide range of measures of subjective well-being (e.g., higher life satisfaction, positive affect, and lower levels of depression, anxiety, and negative emotion). This chapter introduces the concept of humor and its measurement and reviews the research aimed at training humor. Special attention is given to the 7 Humor Habits Program, which is described, along with the contents of the eight group meetings, and a variety of homework activities and humor log exercises aimed at strengthening the humor habits. The training has proved to be effective in boosting humor and elevating life satisfaction. Directions for future research and application are suggested.