Learning about humour

Abstract

In groups, we encounter the entire spectrum of humour from benign jokes to hostile sarcasm. Since humour has been neglected by group analysts, this article expands the limited literature in group analysis on humour. Several theories of humour are introduced. I contend that group analysis should research humour in order to develop a group analytic theory of humour. Jokes and clinical examples are interwoven to illustrate what conductors must consider before employing humour. Reactions to and use of witticism are described. Beneficial humour techniques (therapeutic paradox, paradoxical intentions) and gallows humour are outlined. Gallows humour has therapeutic benefits for depressed, traumatized, suicidal and dying people. Vignettes are provided that demonstrate how parallel process offers insight into humour. I suggest that supervision and workshops are vital if group analysts wish to use humour. Some techniques are described, which could be taught.