Chapter 6 - The Physiological Psychology of Humor and Laughter

Abstract

In the first section of this chapter, The Nature of Laughter, we discuss the relationship between laughter and emotion, followed by an overview of research on the facial expressions of laughter and smiling, the acoustics of laughter, and pathological laughter. In the next section, Laughter in Animals, we underscore the close connection between humor, laughter, and play. Then, in the section Where do Humor and Laughter Occur in the Brain?, we address the different areas of the brain that are implicated in the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral (laughter) processes of humor. Finally, we discuss evolutionary psychology theories that attempt to account for the origins and adaptive functions of humor and laughter. Also in this chapter, the brain regions and neural circuits underlying humor, mirth, and laughter are discussed. Recent advancements in fMRI and EEG technology have allowed physiological psychologists to make significant advancements in our understanding of the brain regions responsible for the cognitive processes of humor comprehension. Consistent with cognitive theories of humor (e.g., incongruity theory, comprehension-evaluation theory), studies have shown that incongruity detection and resolution occur in different brain regions. In addition, research using neuroimaging technology has distinguished the neural circuitry and brain regions involved in mirth and consequent laughter from the cognitive processes involved in humor comprehension. In sum, physiological psychology has made considerable progress in advancing our understanding of the underlying brain structures and biochemical processes implicated in humor and laughter.