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. 2010 Feb;43(1):8-12.
doi: 10.1007/s00391-009-0080-2. Epub 2009 Dec 11.

Humor as a character strength among the elderly: theoretical considerations

W Ruch  1 , R T Proyer, M Weber
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Humor as a character strength among the elderly: theoretical considerations

W Ruch et al. Z Gerontol Geriatr. 2010 Feb.

Abstract

Positive psychology is a scientific approach within psychology that focuses on research on what is best in people. Within this framework, humor is understood as a character strength. The article gives a brief overview on positive psychology and implications for aging (positive aging, successful aging) with an emphasis on the contribution of humor. Humor as a strength of character and its measurement by various approaches are discussed. It is argued that there is a lack of empirical data about humor in the elderly. Potential benefits of considering humor in research but also in practice are discussed.

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