Sense of humor and use of humor: Implication of humor and well-being in Hong Kong

Abstract

Humor has been theorized to have close relationship to well-being. However, previous findings provided an unclear picture about humor and well-being. Also, empirical studies of about humor and well-being were limited amongst Chinese society. Thus, present study aimed at examining the relationship between humor and well-being. In order to conceptualize humor clearly, (a) sense of humor (Multidimensional Sense of Humor Scale: MSHS) and (b) humor styles (Humor Styles Questionnaire: HSQ) (c) were used in present study. Also, (c) personal overall well-being (Personal Well-Being Index Adult: PWI-A) and (d) mental health (Depression, Anxiety & Stress Scale: DASS-21) were taken for measuring well-being. In present study, results have mainly shown that (1) Adaptive uses of humor are related to better well-being while maladaptive uses of humor are related to poorer well-being. (2) Using humor to self in has larger influence on well-being than using humor to others does. (3) Adaptive humors are positively related to sense of humor while maladaptive humors are negatively related to sense of humor. After discussing the results in terms of the effect of humor and cultural factors, the limitations and recommendations are presented.