USES OF HUMOR IN GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPY

Abstract

The first usage is that in which humor is used to conceal some part of the personality which is considered distressing, or undesirable. Example: In a group therapy discussion a patient said that since her admission she has been trying to persuade everyone how well she is and that she should be discharged. To persuade them she must appear happy, therefore, she has sought to appear happy at every opportunity. She has clowned, tried to be the life of the party, and cut up continuously. But now, she says, she is getting tired and thinks perhaps she should he more honest with herself and others. I will not dwell much upon this use but concentrate most of the attention upon the next usage.