Laughter therapy as an intervention to promote psychological well-being

Abstract

Laughter might be thought of as an audible expression or appearance of inward, positive feelings of happiness and joy. Laughter is physical reaction to human consisting of rhythmical and audible contraction of the diaphragm and other parts of respiratory systems. Laughter is a response to external or internal stimuli or both. It is sometimes seen as contagious in that laughter from one person can provoke laughter to others. Laughter is beneficial to the human body. It produces endorphin chemical in the body which works in the brain to bring feeling of contentment. Laughter provides an outlet for negative emotions and provides effective coping mechanism for distress. It stimulates physiological system that decreases levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine and increasing activation of dopamine rewards system of the brain. Laughter is a positive sensation and seems to be an effective way of overcoming socialeconomic stress in our modern competitive society. Laughter therapy, as a non-pharmacological, alternative treatment has a positive effect on physiological well-being. The article examines research evidence for the notion that laughter has beneficial effects on psychological and physiological well-being. Theoretical mechanism for such effects will be discussed as well. Empirical evidence for the benefit of humour and laughter will be summarized.