WHAT'S FUNNY


Frank MacHovec (2008). Humor What's Funny.


MacHovec has a PhD in Clinical Psychology and is the author of several books...this is a short book of 90 pages.

the 1st part includes definitions and theories of humor

the 2nd part, about 2/3 of the book, describes and provides examples of different TYPES of humor, e.g., jokes, puns, satire--some of them may not resonate well for the younger generation as they refer to examples pre-2000

the best part of the book is the last 3 pages where he provides questions for the reader to reflect on the sources of humor in their life including: t.v. shows, comedians, music, books, cartoons, jokes...his overall advice is to play more, be a kid, game, engage in music, have fun!

there is a helpful reference to Albert Ellis (creator of rationale therapy) on using humor in therapy to laugh at oneself, obtain new perspectives, and develop paradoxical thinking (unfortunately, there are no details on HOW to do this) 


practice: ask what resources bring you fun, humor, laughter...consider jokes, youtube videos, stand up comedy...then seek out these resources, developing a list of your favorite ones that help you laugh (e.g., i have a long list of elephant jokes that are nearly always make me laugh even though i've heard/read them many times).




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