People use humor as a coping mechanism because it helps relieve the burden of stressful emotions and can shift perspectives on difficult situations. Humor enables individuals to look at circumstances differently, recognizing absurdities that may otherwise feel overwhelming. This process, known as reappraisal, allows for a lighter perspective on stressors, promoting resilience and emotional health [1][2][6].

Additionally, humor fosters social connections, enhancing feelings of support and decreasing psychological distress. However, the type of humor used is crucial; positive humor can improve mood and social support, while self-defeating humor may lead to increased stress and less social connection [2][6].

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Why do people use humor as a coping mechanism?

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