Humor, Laughter and Playfulness

Abstract

Structural equation modeling (SEM) will be used to develop an understanding of the relationship between Coping Humor, Humor Styles, Playfulness and other personality variables such as Stress, Anxiety, Optimism and Thrill-seeking. Phase I focused on the reliability and factor structure of the Coping Humor Scale (CHS), the Humor Styles Questionnaire (HSQ) and the Playfulness Scale for Adults (PSA). Reliability analyses were conducted along with a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on the CHS and HSQ. Apparent problems with HSQ items were noted. The PSA was outdated. Items asked about the Three Stooges and Star Trek and used odd wording better suited to college students of 1980’s. The PSA items were reviewed with an attempt to update each item. The PSA-Revised was developed and its factor structure explored using Principle Components Analysis with Varimax rotation. Assessment of sampling adequacy (KMO) and scale usefulness (VIF) eliminated some problematic items, as did a lack of interpretability in the factors extracted. Gender differences and age differences were explored focusing on all three scales, and correlations tested between scales, factors and other personality variables. Phase II will continue the revision of the PSA-R and confirm Phase I results. This poster presents Phase I results only.