Opposite of the Commonly Held Belief That Laughter Lowers Blood

question 41

Essay

Opposite of the commonly held belief that laughter lowers blood pressure, Martin (2002, p. 218)concludes that "experimental studies indicate that laughter is actually associated with short-term increases in blood pressure and heart rate, but no longer-term effects." Discuss the more positive results found for using coping humor.

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Definitions:

Adaptive Behavior

The collection of conceptual, social, and practical skills that people learn and use in their daily lives to function effectively and meet societal standards.

Determinists

Philosophers or theorists who believe that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will.

Abnormal Behaviors

Actions or behaviors that deviate significantly from what is generally understood to be normal or typical within a society or cultural context.

Past Experience

The accumulation of knowledge or skill that an individual gains through involvement in events or activities in their life history.