title: Humour-related interventions for people with mental illness: a randomized controlled pilot study.
abstract: This study explored the feasibility and effects of humour-related interventions for mentally ill adults. Twelve, randomly assigned, participated in each of 3 arms--stand up comedy training (the experimental arm), discussing comedy videos (the active control arm), and no humour-related intervention (the passive control arm). Quantitative and qualitative data were collected at baseline, end of interventions (3 months) and follow up (after another 3 months). Scale comparisons were largely negative, although self-esteem marginally increased in the experimental arm. Interview responses indicated benefits for the interventions, including improved self-esteem in the experimental arm. These results, though mixed, justify further study.
authors: Department of Psychiatry, Vancouver Island Health Authority, The Island Medical Program and University of British Columbia, 642-2334 Trent Street, Victoria, BC, V8R 4Z3, Canada, abraham.rudnick@viha.ca.
authors: Abraham
authors: A
authors: Rudnick
authors: Paul M
authors: PM
authors: Kohn
authors: Kim R
authors: KR
authors: Edwards
authors: David
authors: D
authors: Podnar
authors: Sara
authors: S
authors: Caird
authors: Rod
authors: R
authors: Martin
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D027641:Laughter Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012649:Self Concept; D016896:Treatment Outcome