The Importance Of Humor In Life

Since the evolution of human species, mankind has considerably been striving for the attainment of happiness, satisfaction, tranquility and a life free from stress. Humor is one way through which one can find relief from the various stressful and tense situations of life. Humor is something which is enjoyed by everyone irrespective of the age, gender, race, caste, religion, etc. It binds people together and generates positive and happy environment. For a person possessing a humorous disposition, even the most arduous and stressful situations can be dealt with ease. According to Berk (2001), during the times of stress, humor serves the function of disconnecting an individual from the stressful situation, thus, helping him to adapt and protect himself from stress. According to Martin (2004), individuals having a humoristic approach to life cope more effectively with stress and crisis in their lives by distancing themselves from stressful situations and increasing their sense of control when trying to cope with stress. Certainly, stress is

Hiranandani and Yue (2015) conducted a study in which humor styles were examined in Indian society. It was found that Indian students were more likely to use Adaptive humor styles than Maladaptive humor styles. They had a tendency to use mazaak, so that, their relationships get enhanced (Ramaswami, 2006).
According to Pa’ez, Seguel and Martı´nez-Sa´nchez (2013), humor as a coping strategy involved positive reappraisal and verbal expression during stressful episodes. The researchers were of the view that using humor as a coping strategy includes the witty expression of ideas and feelings related to stress. It allowed people to distance themselves from stressful events and situations which were helpful in gaining perspective. It also resulted in the ability not to take life or oneself too