Background: Humor has been shown to improve well-being in a variety of populations. In this presentation the author will describe briefly the rationale for incorporating humor into interventions and share humor stories from his work as an award-winning humor writer and psychologist.
Methods: The author developed two types of humor interventions aimed at improving well-being: an online platform called Fun for Wellness (FFW) (www.funforwellness.com), and a trilogy of books called the Laughing Guides (www.thelaughingguide.com). FFW consist of humor, vignettes, and video games. The three Laughing Guides follow the motto smarter through laughter, and consist of two main parts: The Laughing Side and The Learning Side. Each book uses humor and science to educate the public.
Results: FFW has been the subject of two randomized controlled trials. The findings indicate that FFW is effective in improving subjective well-being, actions aimed at improving well-being, and well-being self-efficacy. The Laughing Guides have not been subjected to a controlled experiment, but have resulted in many laughs.
Conclusion: Humor is an effective yet underutilized resource in positive psychology. The audience will get to experience humor first-hand through the sharing of fun stories, and learn about the process of producing humor online and in books.