Explorations of the Functions of Humor and other Types of Fun among Families of Children with Disabilities

Abstract

This article presents a qualitative study of six families of children with disabilities and their perspectives on humor. The findings revealed that the families had an understanding of humor that went beyond the generalized humor construct. They embraced both the concept of humor and “other types of fun.” Furthermore, the families' attempts at defining humor focused on functional and situational approaches to humor involving its use as (a) a means of releasing negative emotions and as a natural stress remedy, (b) a means of learning, (c) a form of problem solving, (d) a means of connecting, (e) a form of communication, (f) a means of preventing others from engaging in a putdown, (g) an expression of freedom, (h) a means of building optimistic thinking, and (i) a form of discovering a playful spirit in oneself. A discussion of the findings and suggestions for further research on humor are offered.