by Julia Wilkins, PhD and Amy Janel Eisenbraun, MS at Academia.edu
There are 3 main theories used to explain the functions of humor: (1) the relief theory, (2) the incongruity theory, and(3) the superiority theory. While these theories focus on the specific role that humor plays for people in situationssuch as dealing with misfortune, making sense of rule violations, and bonding with others, we propose thatunderlying each of these theories are the physiological benefits of laughter. We draw on findings from empiricalstudies on laughter to demonstrate that these physiological benefits occur regardless of the theory that is used toexplain the humor function. Findings from these studies have important implications for nurse practitioners workingin hospice settings, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals.