Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A sense of humor refers to an individual's ability to perceive, appreciate, and express things that are funny or amusing. It involves understanding jokes, sarcasm, wit, and finding joy in humorous situations.
Related terms
Cognitive Processing Theory: This theory explains how individuals process information related to humor, including comprehension, interpretation, and incongruity resolution.
Laughter Therapy: Laughter therapy utilizes humor as a therapeutic technique to promote physical and psychological well-being.
Humor Styles: Different individuals have different styles of using humor such as affiliative (using humor to enhance relationships), self-enhancing (using humor for personal growth), aggressive (using humor at others' expense), and self-defeating (using humor to belittle oneself).