Psychological correlates of humor preferences in oncology patients

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between three psychological factors in oncology patients, and the type of humor they prefer. Locus of control, assertiveness, and reactions to stress were selected for investigation in light of previous research which indicated their relevance to the manner in which this population copes with adversity. Humor was chosen for exploration on the basis of its potential adaptive qualities as expressed in Freudian theory. A review of the literature revealed as scarcity of information pertaining to the use of humor as a coping mechanism by individuals with neoplastic disease, and as a therapeutic tool by those involved in the holistic treatment of this special population. The present exploratory research was designed to address these deficiencies. A total of 60 adult male veterans who were being treated for a diagnosis of malignancy at an outpatient clinic of a Veterans Administration medical center participated voluntarily in the study. A battery of instruments was administered to the subjects while they were waiting to see their physician, and was completed during the clinic visit. The assessment devices included a general information sheet, the Social Reaction Inventory (SRI), the Rathus Assertiveness Schedule (RAS), the Habits of Nervous Tension Questionnaire (HNT), and the Story Test (ST). Analysis of the data was conducted by means of descriptive statistics, and correlational and multiple regression analyses. Results indicated a number of significant correlations among the psychological factors of locus of control, assertiveness, and reactions to stress. Significant correlations also were found among the three types of humor preference. Findings showed no significant relationships between the psychological factors and type of humor preference. It was concluded that, for the sample of oncology patients, the psychological factors investigated did not make a significant contribution to the prediction of type of humor preference.