"Therapeutic Humor with Children and Teens" - Susan Mathieu - 3/10/11

"Therapeutic Humor with Children and Teens" Dr. Susan Mathieu ---------------- Indeed, humor is a powerful force with psychological and physiological effects on the body similar to the health benefits of aerobic exercise (Adamle, Chiang-Hanisko, Ludwick, Zeller, & Brown, 2007; Du Pre, 1998). Humor and laughter improve the immune system, heart functioning, and mental health, among other benefits (Du Pre, 1998). Cortisol, a hormone secreted by the body during times of stress, suppresses the proper functioning of the immune system thus making humans more inclined to become sick (Du Pre, 1998). Research has found that laughter can remove some of the negative effects of stress (Celso, Ebener, & Burkhead, 2003; Du Pre, 1998). Research in the area of humor supports a relationship between humor and hopefulness (Vilaythong, Arnau, Rosen, & Mascaro, 2003; Westburg, 2003). Although laughter can be achieved through entertainment such as viewing videos and film, the social interaction portion of laughter is also very helpful. Susan Mathieu, 2008 The presentation will include: 1. Getting Started - How to Play with Your Own Pain- Yes I Mean YOU! 2. The Patch Adams Primer (Clown Noses and Funny Faces) 3. Facts & Fiction of Laughter 4. Humor Do's & Don'ts 5. Ten Easy Intervention Methods