Date of Award

12-1992

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Edward L. Trembley

Second Advisor

Dr. Robert Wait

Third Advisor

Dr. Robert Betz

Abstract

This paper explores the role of sense of humor as a mediator of the effects of stress on physical health and psychological well-being. One hundred subjects, selected from a population of hospital employees, were administered two measures of sense of humor. In addition, they completed a personal data form, and instruments assessing stressors, perceived stress, physical health and psychological well-being.

Results were evaluated using simple correlations and multiple regression analysis in order to determine whether or not knowledge of a subject's sense of humor enables prediction of their levels of physical health, psychological well-being and perceived stress. Analysis of the data revealed a modest relationship between sense of humor, as measured by the Coping Humor Scale (Lefcourt & Martin, 1986), and psychological well-being. No evidence was found to support a relationship between sense of humor and either perceived stress or health.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

Included in

Counseling Commons

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