31Mar
ABSTRACT
This study examined the Understanding of Humor as a Coping Mechanism: Its Effects on Emotional Growth. Phenomenological design was used in the study to explain its overall conclusions. The sample population for this study consists of five (5) Filipino citizens of Nasugbu, Batangas. Most participants identify humor as a coping mechanism. The conclusion implies that humor is more than just entertainment—it is an essential psychological and social mechanism and a survival strategy that strengthens emotional resilience.
Participants revealed that the primary functions of humor as a coping mechanism are stress relief, emotional regulation and strengthening, facilitating conversations on sensitive topics, problem-solving, and maintaining a positive mental and emotional state. The challenges and concerns that associate with using humor as a coping mechanism are its risks of causing misinterpretation, avoidance of serious issues, and its potential to become a barrier to emotional growth or meaningful problem-solving.
Moreover, the researchers recommended that mental health professionals and educators should incorporate humor-based stress management strategies with active application by individuals who use humor as a coping mechanism. Furthermore, mental health professionals should develop interventions that maximize humor’s benefits. Additionally, schools, workplaces, and community leaders should promote awareness of different humor styles and their impact. And also, teachers, parents, and mental health advocates should educate individuals on the mindful use of humor.
Keywords: Humor, coping mechanism, emotional growth, filipino, strengthening, risks, problem-solving, barrier
Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Introduction
Humor is a universal human experience that transcends cultures and situations. It serves as a strategy for navigating life’s challenges, playing a crucial role in maintaining emotional well-being by helping individuals manage stress and cope with difficulties.
According to Balmores-Paulino (2021), different humor styles, such as affiliative and self-enhancing humor are positively correlated with better psychological health and emotional growth. This aligns with the idea that humor not only serves as a tool for social connection but also contributes to emotional resilience.
Similarly, Kennison (2022), explored humor’s role in promoting resilience and happiness among young adults. Their findings highlight that humor is not only an emotional buffer but also a tool for maintaining optimism and adapting to adversity.
In the context of Filipino culture, humor is an essential coping mechanism. Filipinos are widely recognized for their resilience and optimism, often using humor to lighten burdens and find joy even amidst adversity. This cultural trait reflects the Filipino spirit of finding happiness and positivity, enabling them to approach life’s challenges with a smile.
To understand Filipino humor as a coping mechanism and its effects on emotional growth, the researchers want to explore knowledge and experiences in relation to their use of humor.
Thus, the researchers seek out the investigation of humor’s dynamics in the Filipino culture and its long-term emotional impact to contribute to broader discussions on mental health and identify humor as a significant factor in emotional development and resilience among Filipinos.
Background of the Study
Filipino humor is a defining aspect of the nation’s culture, celebrated for its wit, creativity, and ability to foster connection. It has long been regarded as a tool for resilience, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with optimism and levity. Whether through jokes, satire, or lighthearted banter, humor is often seen as a way to alleviate stress and build emotional strength. However, the dual nature of humor as a coping mechanism warrants closer examination, as it may not always lead to positive outcomes.
While humor can provide temporary relief from emotional distress, it may also mask deeper issues by encouraging avoidance rather than resolution. The tendency to “laugh off” or “make light” of problems, common in Filipino culture, can create emotional distance that impedes the resolution of underlying issues. This emphasizes the need to explore how humor can be balanced to promote both short-term resilience and long-term emotional well-being. (Litam and Chan, 2022)
In lieu thereof, the research utilized the phenomenological research design to understand Filipino humor as a coping mechanism, as well as its effects on emotional growth. By examining the lived experiences of individuals, the research sought to uncover how humor can simultaneously serve as a source of resilience and a potential barrier to emotional processing. The findings were the basis for the proposed humor literacy and emotional resilience program that will contribute to deeper understanding of the nuanced role of humor in emotional well-being.
Statement of the Problem
The study aimed to understand humor as a coping mechanism and as well as its effects on emotional growth.
Specifically, the study sought answers to the following questions:
1: How do Filipinos utilize humor in their daily lives to cope with stress and adversity?
2: What are the specific types of humor commonly used by Filipinos, and how do they reflect cultural values?
3: In what ways does the use of humor contribute to emotional resilience among Filipinos facing challenging circumstances?
4: What are the perceived benefits and drawbacks of using humor as a coping mechanism for emotional challenges in Filipino culture?
Scope and Delimitation
This study focuses on understanding Filipino humor as a coping mechanism and its effects on emotional growth. The study includes individuals who frequently use humor as a coping mechanism such as teenagers and young adults and are residing in urban and rural areas in the Philippines. It focuses on their personal experiences and perceptions of how humor affects their emotional well-being and examines how humor influences emotional resilience, emotional processing, and personal development.
The study is limited to participants aged 16 to 30 years old. The research excludes individuals outside this age range and those who do not identify humor as a primary coping mechanism. It does not analyze other coping strategies or compare them with humor. Additionally, the study does not delve into external factors such as cultural differences or economic issues that may indirectly influence the use of humor as a coping tool.
This study is intended to provide insights into the complexities of humor as a coping mechanism, emphasizing its dual nature and the potential implications for emotional health and personal development.
Significance of the Study
The results of this study, “Understanding Filipino Humor as a Coping Mechanism: Its Effects on Emotional Growth,” are deemed significant to the following:
Individuals: This study may provide valuable insights into the dual nature of humor as a coping mechanism, helping individuals understand how it influences their emotional resilience, processing, and growth. It can encourage self-awareness in using humor to address emotional challenges more effectively and meaningfully.
Mental Health Practitioners: The findings can guide mental health professionals in integrating culturally relevant coping strategies, such as humor, into their therapeutic practices. It may also aid in identifying the limitations of humor as a coping mechanism and recommending complementary strategies for holistic emotional growth.
Educators and Counselors: The study may help educators and counselors recognize the role of humor in students’ emotional well-being. It can inform the development of programs or interventions that leverage humor as a tool for fostering emotional resilience while addressing its potential drawbacks.
Policymakers and Community Leaders: The research may assist in promoting mental health initiatives that incorporate humor as a culturally sensitive and accessible coping tool. It can also provide insights for crafting public campaigns that raise awareness about the balance between humor and other coping strategies.
Future Researchers: The study will serve as a valuable reference for researchers exploring the relationship between cultural coping mechanisms and emotional well-being. It provides a framework for investigating the complexities of humor’s impact on personal and social development, offering baseline data for future studies in this field.
Definition of Terms
Absurd – A type of humor characterized by ridiculous illogical, irrational, or nonsensical elements that defy conventional reasoning, often used in Filipino humor to create comedic relief in difficult situations.
Adversity – Life challenges, hardships, or difficulties that individuals experience, which humor may help mitigate as a coping mechanism.
Affiliative Humor – A positive form of humor that strengthens social bonds by using lighthearted jokes, common in Filipino social interactions.
Avoidance Coping – A psychological strategy where individuals use humor to distract themselves from stressful situations rather than directly addressing them.
Cognitive Reappraisal – The process of reframing negative events or emotions in a more positive or humorous light to regulate emotional responses.
Coping Mechanism – A psychological strategy, such as humor, that individuals use to manage stress, emotional pain, or adversity.
Detrimental – Refers to humor that negatively impacts emotional growth, such as self-deprecating or aggressive humor that reinforces negative self-perception or social conflicts.
Emotional Buffer – The role of humor in cushioning the impact of negative emotions, allowing individuals to handle distressing situations with greater ease.
Emotional Distance – The psychological space humor creates between an individual and a stressful experience, reducing the emotional intensity of a situation.
Emotional Growth – The process of developing greater emotional resilience, self-awareness, and regulation, which may be influenced by one’s use of humor as a coping tool.
Humor Literacy – The ability to recognize, understand, and appropriately use different types of humor, distinguishing between constructive and harmful humor.
Kanal Humor – A colloquial term in Filipino culture referring to crude, slapstick, or self-deprecating humor often associated with lower socioeconomic groups but also serving as a shared coping mechanism.
Levity – Lightheartedness or cheerfulness in communication, helping to diffuse tension and promote a positive social interaction.
Satire – A form of humor that uses irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to critique societal issues, often employed in Filipino comedy to address political or social problems.
Self-deprecating – A type of humor where individuals make fun of or undervalue themselves.
Slapstick – An exaggerated form of comedy commonly seen in Filipino entertainment.
Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES RELATED LITERATURES
Utilization of humor in coping with stress and adversity
Filipino humor has been a fundamental part of daily life, serving as a means to handle stress and adversity. Balmores-Paulino (2018) pointed out that humor functions across cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions, promoting positive emotions while taking social contexts into account. It acts as a support system during tough times, strengthens social bonds, and serves as a mode of communication. Similarly, the research indicates that humor plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and resilience, helping individuals cope with challenges in a psychologically beneficial way.
Beyond the Filipino context, studies on humor as a universal coping mechanism affirmed its effectiveness in alleviating stress and reframing issues (Jiang et al., 2019). Laughter offers psychological relief by providing a fresh perspective on stressful situations and releasing built-up tension. Various types of humor, such as slapstick, situational comedy, stand-up acts, and social media memes, captures shared experiences and fosters a sense of community during tough times.
Additionally, Simione et al. (2023) examined the impact of humor during the COVID-19 pandemic and discovered that it significantly eased the negative effects of avoidance coping on stress. While avoidance coping often resulted in increased stress levels, humor acts as a buffer against its detrimental effects. This indicates that humor not only allows individuals to temporarily escape from stressors but also improves their capacity to handle challenging emotions.
Specific types of humor commonly used by Filipinos and its reflection of Filipino cultural values
The humor styles prevalent among Filipinos reflects the country’s shared values, beliefs, and attitudes toward life’s challenges. Ancheta (2021) characterized humor as a “Filipino national weapon,” used to highlight social issues and strengthen cultural identity. Through humor, Filipinos showcase their resilience, resourcefulness, and optimism when facing adversity.
Pearce (2022) explored the role of humor in shaping identity and social relationships, especially in educational contexts. His research underscored how humor can create a sense of belonging and enhance learning, while also pointing out the risks of inappropriate or excessive humor. In Filipino culture, humor often strikes a balance between positive reinforcement and harmful tendencies, making it essential to understand when humor supports or undermines emotional well-being.
Furthermore, a meta-analysis by Mendiburo-Seguel et al. (2015) found a strong link between affiliative humor and traits like extraversion and emotional stability. This indicates that those who engage in positive humor styles are more likely to enjoy better emotional health and social connections.
Contribution of the use of humor to emotional resilience
Studies suggest that humor significantly contributes to emotional resilience by fostering optimism and strengthening social support systems. Schneider et al. (2018) conducted a meta-analysis of 37 studies on humor styles and mental health, revealing that affiliative and self-enhancing humor correlate positively with self-esteem, life satisfaction, and optimism, while self-defeating humor is associated with depression and lower self-esteem.
In the Filipino context, resilience is often viewed as a natural strength that enables individuals to cope with hardships through various means, including humor. Nicomedes et al. (2020) examined the resilience of young Filipino adults, emphasizing how their coping strategies are influenced by personal characteristics, challenges, and external factors like family, religion, and community. Their research indicated that although resilience is a key trait, mental health issues continue to exist, highlighting the need for a more in-depth understanding of how Filipinos deal with difficulties. This supports the idea that humor plays a vital role as a coping mechanism, providing emotional relief and strengthening social connections during tough times.
Advantages and disadvantages of humor as a coping mechanism
Filipinos often use humor to reinterpret and manage stress, making difficult situations easier to handle. Rilveria (2018) noted that humor is part of cognitive reappraisal and emotional release, both of which are crucial coping strategies outlined in the Filipino Coping Strategies Scale. This method allows individuals to change their viewpoint on challenges, reducing stress while promoting a sense of hope. The inherently social aspect of Filipino humor further boosts emotional resilience, as shared laughter deepens relationships and offers community support in challenging moments. However, while humor can be a powerful coping tool, its inappropriate use may lead to adverse effects.
According to Martin (2019), certain types of humor, like self-defeating and aggressive humor, can actually lead to psychological distress instead of providing relief. When people use humor to hide their true feelings or avoid confronting personal issues, they may impede their emotional processing and stall their personal growth. This indicates that while humor can promote resilience and emotional flexibility, it needs to be balanced with self-awareness and constructive coping strategies to prevent it from becoming an obstacle to effectively resolving life’s challenges.
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
This study was anchored on the Incongruity Theory of Humor by Kant (1790) and Schopenhauer (1818), as cited by Martin (2018). This theory stated that humor arises when there is a mismatch between expectation and reality, creating an element of surprise that elicits amusement. It explains why people find humor in unexpected situations, contradictions, or absurdities. In the context of coping, humor allows individuals to reframe stressful or negative experiences in a less threatening way, making it an effective psychological tool for emotional resilience.
The Incongruity Theory suggested that humor functions as a cognitive mechanism that helps individuals make sense of difficult situations. When faced with adversity, people unconsciously reframe their experiences by highlighting the absurd or ironic aspects of their struggles. This mental shift can reduce stress and promote a sense of control. Additionally, humor plays a significant role in social bonding, providing emotional relief and fostering connections with others.
This theoretical perspective is applicable to the present study as it encompasses various aspects of humor and emotional growth. The interconnectedness of these concept links Filipino humor to emotional resilience, self-awareness, and social interaction. The study explores how humor―whether self-deprecating, satirical, or situational―shapes the emotional development of Filipino individuals.
Moreover, acknowledging the importance of this theory strengthens the analysis of humor as a coping mechanism, thereby leading to the crafting of programs for improved humor literacy and emotional resilience as it will provide substantial parameters for input in its realization.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Based on the explained conceptual theory used in this study, the researcher found out that in order to make depth knowledge and careful judgement about the relationships of the variables, it required critical analysis of the variables that can improve humor literacy and emotional resilience among Filipinos.
Figure (1) illustrates the research simulacrum of the study. It shows the relationship of Filipino humor and the challenges associated with emotional resilience among Filipinos in challenging circumstances. Hence, impact of the variables is determined. The findings of this study adhere to formulate a program for improved humor literacy and emotional resilience among Filipinos who identify humor as a coping mechanism.
Chapter 3
RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES
This chapter presents the methods of research used. It also includes the research design, locale and participants of the study, research instrument, construction, and validation of instrument, ethical considerations, data gathering procedures, and analysis of data.
Research Design
This study used Qualitative Approach using phenomenological research design. This type of approach aims to understand the lived experiences of people. Also, it gives an idea on how individuals or a group of people react or experience a certain phenomenon. A phenomenon is a rare occurrence or an experience of an individual that is not common. In this study, the researchers explored the experiences of individuals on using Filipino humor as a coping mechanism and how it affected their emotional growth.
Locale of the Study
The study was conducted in Nasugbu, Batangas. The aforementioned municipality was selected as the research site due to its diverse population and varying socio-cultural backgrounds, which provided a broad range of perspectives relevant to the study. This diversity allowed a more comprehensive understanding of the problem.
Participants of the Study
Using Maximum Variation Sampling, the researchers selected five (5) individuals (specify gender) across different age ranges from 15-30, who were chosen to ensure diverse perspectives on how humor influences emotional growth. This approach allowed for a richer understanding of varying experiences while maintaining efficiency in participant selection.
Research Instrument
Data were collected using a semi-structured interview tool consisting of three (3) items covering Filipino humor.
Construction and Validation of the Instrument
The research instrument was constructed with the expert guidance of the research adviser. Several item questions were formulated and forwarded to the adviser for review and suggestions.
Ethical Considerations
Part of the ethical consideration of this study was to secure the consent of the participants to voluntarily participate. Before they participated in the study, each participant was given a copy of the consent. The researchers made sure that the consent was carefully explained to them. It was further emphasized to the participants that participation in the study was voluntary and that they have the option not to participate in the study. Ethical principles were considered to preserve the integrity and dignity of the participants.
Data Collection Procedure
The school principal of Nasugbu East Senior High school granted permission for the researchers to conduct this study prior to the distribution of the research instrument. The request letter was forwarded to the Office of the School Principal. Following the approval, the researchers informed the participants of the research’s goal before the interview ad allowed for questions to address any concerns. Then, the researchers gave the interview material to the study’s target participants, giving them plenty of time to complete them.
In addition, the researchers sought the assistance of participants to be able to honestly answer the prepared questions.
Data Analysis
Qualitative data were analyzed using Manual Thematic Analysis to describe concepts.
Chapter 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter presents the data gathered analysis and interpretation to answer the problem which this study aims to achieve.
UTILIZATION OF HUMOR IN COPING WITH STRESS AND ADVERSITY
Table 1: Utilization of Humor
| P1 | “Sa tingin ko po, ginagamit ng mga Pilipino ang humor bilang stress reliever upang mapatawa ang kanilang mga sarili at ang mga taong nasa paligid nila. Minsan ginagamit din nila ito upang makapag-usap tungkol sa mga sensitibong bagay sa isang ligtas at ‘di nakakasakit na paraan.” {I think Filipinos use humor as a stress reliever to make themselves and the people around them laugh. Sometimes, they also use it to talk about sensitive topics in a safe and non-offensive way.} | STRESS RELIEF, FACILITATING CONVERSATION ON SENSITIVE TOPICS |
| P2 | “Para sa akin, ginagamit ng mga Pilipino ang kanilang humor, mapa-good man or bad, sa kanilang pang-araw-araw na buhay para ma-relieve po yung stress nila or mabawasan po yung stress nila. Also, para mas mapagaan po yung pakiramdam nila although may kinakaharap po silang problema.” {For me, Filipinos use their humor—whether good or bad—in their daily lives to relieve or lessen their stress. Also, it helps lighten their mood even when they are facing problems.} | DAILY STRESS MANAGEMENT, EMOTIONAL REGULATION |
| P3 | “For me, ginagamit ng mga Pilipino yung humor sa pang-araw-araw na buhay para harapin ang stress at pagsubok… ginagamit nila ito na pampalakas ng loob nila. Kumbaga yung mga problema nila dinadaan nila sa humor para mas madali nilang masolusyonan and hindi masyadong maging mabigat yung mga pinagdaraanan nila. Kumbaga, mas mala-lighten yung mga pinagdaraanan nila, yung mga iniisip nila, kapag ginagamitan nila ng humor yunng mga pinagdaraanan nila sa araw-araw nilang pamumuhay.” {For me, Filipinos use humor in their everyday lives to cope with stress and challenges. They use it to boost their confidence. It’s like they deal with their problems through humor to make it easier for them to find solutions and not feel too overwhelmed. In a way, humor helps lighten their burdens and thoughts as they go through their daily struggles.} | CONFIDENCE BOOSTING, PROBLEM-SOLVING THROUGH HUMOR |
| P4 | “We Filipinos kasi, kilala tayo bilang mga masisiyahing tao, ‘di ba? Mayroon tayong different humors and by that, doon tayo nakaka-attract ng mga ka-same humors natin, and then doon tayo nakaka-build ng friendship. Ginagamit natin siya despite sa mga challenges na kinakaharap natin. And magbibigay ako ng example, especially noong pandemic, super stressed and doon tayo naging aware sa mga different mental issues, but with the help of socal media, ng mga digital platforms like TikTok, ginamit natin siyang entertainment videos na kung saan pwede tayong manood ng mga videos, maglibang, or gumawa ng sarili nating video with the use of our different humors, POVs, na kung saan doon tayo naglilibang. So, doon pa lang, makikita na natin kung paano natin fine-face yung mga struggles with pandemic. Ginagamit natin yung humors natin pampalakas ng loob, pampatagtag ng stress, and nakakatulong siya para ma-lessen yung stress natin and syempre mag-turn into happiness. Kaya nga tayong mga Filipinos ay sinasabing laging motivated kasi daw dahil sa mga humors natin. Bumabagyo na, nagagawa pang mag-TikTok sa gitna ng baha, ‘di ba? Anong klaseng humors ‘yon? And syempre ako, tulad ko rin, pag stress ako, yung humor ko kasi ginagamit ko siya pampalakas ng loob, and dahil doon, nakaka-build nga rin ako ng friendship, and by that, nagiging “stay resilient” ka despite sa mga tough times.” {We Filipinos are known for being happy people, right? We have different types of humor, and through that, we attract people who share the same sense of humor, allowing us to build friendships. We use humor despite the challenges we face. For example, during the pandemic, when people were extremely stressed and more aware of different mental health issues, social media and digital platforms like TikTok became a source of entertainment. We watched videos, entertained ourselves, and even created our own humorous POVs, which helped us cope with the struggles of the pandemic. That alone shows how we faced difficulties using humor—it gave us strength, helped us manage stress, and turned our worries into happiness. That’s why Filipinos are often seen as motivated because of our humor. Even during typhoons, some still find a way to make TikTok videos in the middle of floods—what kind of humor is that? And personally, when I’m stressed, I use humor to lift my spirits, which also helps me build friendships. Because of that, we learn how to stay resilient despite tough times.} | SOCIAL BONDING, DIGITAL HUMOR AS A COPING TOOL, RESILIENCE THROUGH LAUGHTER |
| P5 | “Ginagamit ng mga Pilipino yung humor nila sa pagharap ng pagsubok para mapadali, mapagaan yung sitwasyon na meron sila, habang iniisip nila kung paano nila ito sosolusyonan. Pero hindi nila ‘to tine-take nang very serious. Yung paggamit ng humor, malaking bagay yung naitutulong para habang iniisip mo yung sagot, nagiging magaan: sa pakiramdam, sa emosyon, na hindi ka mabibigatan, na hindi mo maiisip na sumuko.” {Filipinos use humor when facing challenges to make their situation easier and lighter while thinking of solutions. However, they don’t take things too seriously. Humor plays a big role in helping them process their emotions so they don’t feel too burdened or think about giving up.} | EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE, MAINTAINING POSITIVITY IN CHALLENGES |
Interpretation for Table 1:
The responses from participants highlight how humor plays a vital role in helping Filipinos cope with stress and adversity, reflecting its multifaceted functions. Table 1 shows how humor is utilized in coping with stress and adversity, demonstrating its functions in stress relief, confidence boosting, problem-solving, social bonding, and emotional resilience.
One (1) participant emphasized that humor provides stress relief and facilitates conversations on sensitive topics. One (1) participant highlighted its role in daily stress management and emotional regulation. One (1) participant shared that humor boosts confidence and aids in problem-solving. One (1) participant discussed how humor strengthens social bonding, serves as a digital coping tool, and builds resilience through laughter. One (1) participant noted that humor contributes to emotional resilience and helps maintain positivity in challenging situations.
The findings of this study align with existing literature on humor as a coping mechanism. Many participants noted that humor allows them to address sensitive topics in a non-threatening way, reinforcing Balmores-Paulino’s (2018) argument that humor acts as a mode of communication and emotional support.
Additionally, the ability to solve problems with a clear mental and emotional state aligns with Simione et al. (2023) who found that humor interceded the negative effects of avoidance coping on stress, demonstrating how it allows individuals to process emotions more effectively rather than merely escaping from them.
Beyond personal coping, humor strengthens social bonds by fostering connections with others who share similar comedic perspectives. The findings also highlight the role of digital platforms, particularly TikTok, where Filipinos share humor to navigate difficulties together. This aligns with Simione et al. (2023), who observed how humor became an essential tool for emotional release during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, humor contributes to emotional resilience by shifting individuals’ perspectives on challenges. Rather than viewing problems as overwhelming, Filipinos use humor to make struggles feel more manageable. This supports the idea that humor enhances one's ability to handle emotional distress and maintain motivation despite hardships (Jiang e. at., 2019).
Overall, these findings reinforce that humor is more than just entertainment—it is an essential psychological and social mechanism for Filipinos that enables individuals to cope with adversity while maintaining a sense of optimism and adaptability in the face of adversity.
SPECIFIC TYPES OF HUMOR COMMONLY USED BY FILIPINOS AND ITS REFLECTION OF FILIPINO CULTURAL VALUES
Table 2: Common Humor Types and Reflection to Filipino Cultural Values
| P1 | “Base po sa aking kaalaman, madalas pong gamitin ng mga Pilipino ang sarcasm at irony upang mas maipahayag ang kanilang kalooban tungkol sa mga sensitibong isyu o problema sa isang mas ligtas at di nakaka-offend na paraan.” {Based on my knowledge, Filipinos often use sarcasm and irony to express their thoughts about sensitive issues or problems in a safer and less offensive way.} | SARCASM, IRONY |
| P2 | “In today’s generation, meron tayong tinatawag na “kanal” humor na kung saan parang yung mga humor na ‘yon is minsan below the belt or hindi kaaya-aya sa pandinig ng iba, so parang somehow, parang nababastos o nababaliwala yung cultural aspect ng ating culture as yung mga Pilipino ay kilala as welcoming towards other people. Aside from “kanal” humor na gamay na ng mga Pilipino, there are also positive humor naman na kung saan parang mas tinutulungan tayo na mag-cope up sa ating problems easily at para mas ma-alleviate nga yung stress easily.” {In today's generation, we have what we call "kanal" humor, which sometimes includes jokes that are below the belt or unpleasant to hear for some people. This kind of humor can sometimes be offensive or dismissive of the cultural aspects of our identity, considering that Filipinos are known for being welcoming to others. Aside from "kanal" humor, which many Filipinos are familiar with, there are also positive forms of humor that help us cope with our problems more easily and alleviate stress more effectively.} | KANAL HUMOR, POSITIVE HUMOR |
| P3 | “For me, mayroong dalawa na para sa akin ay madalas ginagamit ng mga Pilipino, which is yung slapstick at sarcasm. Slapstick yung ginagawa nilang katatawanan yung mga absurd sa kanilang buhay. Sarcasm, parang ‘yan yung ginagawa nilang biro yung… kumbaga, para mas ma-manage nila o para mas mabigyan nila ng solusyon, mas maunawaan, nila yung mga pinagdaraanan nila, ginagawa nilang katatawanan or parang pinapagaan nila yung mga mabibigat na bagay, for them to easily manage it.” {For me, there are two types of humor that Filipinos often use: slapstick and sarcasm. Slapstick is when they find humor in the absurdities of life. Sarcasm, on the other hand, is when they turn serious matters into jokes to help them manage their emotions, find solutions, and better understand their struggles. They use humor to lighten heavy situations, making them easier to handle.} | SLAPSTICK, SARCASM |
| P4 | “Mayroon tayong iba’t ibang kinds ng humor na kung saan doon natin naa-identify kung paano bang mag-isip ang isang tao. And syempre, hinndi naman lahat ng tao ay nakikilala agad natin kapag nakita natin. Nakikilala lang natin yung isang tao kapag nakilala natin yung humors nila and nakita natin na na-swak tayo sa isa’t isang humor, so syempre nakaka-create tayo ng friendship. So, kung ako ang tatanungin, ano ba yung mostly ginagamit nating humor, ano “kanal” humor, kasi especially, tulad ko. Mayroon kasi akong “kanal” humor, kumbaga, syempre kapag kasi may humor kang ganon… kasi ang humor natin, lumalabas yan, it depends upon sa situation, kung ano ang nakikita natin, and then doon nagke-create yung mind natin ng mga witty ideas, and syempre doon tayo nagkakaroon ng pagkakasunduan kapag magkakapareho kayo ng humors. Tulad na lang kapag, for example, magmi-meet kayo, may gala kayo ng friends niyo, syempre mag-uusap-usap kayo and magkakaroon kayo ng mga topic, chika… doon kasi mas nae-enjoy niyo yung life niyo. Doon kasi, doon natin naipapakita na, even though sa stressful things, nakikipag-bonding tayo sa mga friends natin, with our humors, nale-lessen yung mga problema. Kasi ganoon naman,’di ba? Kapag with our friends, mas doon natin naipapakita yung totoong tayo, yung mga sides natin of humors, kasi mas comfortable tayong mag-out sa kanila. And by that, nagpapakita siya ng cultures sa ating mga Pilipino na, ayun nga, with our friends, doon natin mas nakikilala ang ating mga sarili, and doon natin mas nauunawaan ang isa’t isa, nahahawahan ng kaniya-kaniya nating humors.” {We have different kinds of humor that help us identify how a person thinks. Of course, we don’t immediately understand people just by looking at them. We truly get to know someone when we understand their sense of humor, and when we find that our humor matches, we build friendships. If you ask me which type of humor is most commonly used, I’d say "kanal" humor—especially people like me who have that kind of humor. It naturally comes out depending on the situation. What we see around us sparks witty ideas, and when we share the same sense of humor, it becomes a common ground for bonding. For example, when you meet up with friends, you chat, share stories, and discuss different topics. That’s how we enjoy life. Even when dealing with stressful things, spending time with friends and sharing humor helps lessen our problems. That’s just how it works, right? When we're with friends, we show our true selves, including different sides of our humor, because we feel more comfortable expressing ourselves. This reflects Filipino culture—through our friendships, we get to know ourselves better and understand each other more deeply by sharing our unique sense of humor.} | KANAL HUMOR, SITUATIONAL HUMOR |
| P5 | “So yung madalas natin na ginagamit, ako especially, ako, na uri ng humor ay ang positibong humor ‘no. Especially kailangan ‘yon ng mga mag-aaral ko para mapagaan ko yung gawain nila, sa dami ng gawain nila, ginagamitan ko ng positive humor para maging magaan sa kanila. Sa pamamagitan ng paraan ko o ng paggamit ko ng humor para sa kanila, nakaka-influence ‘yon sa kanila na mapagaan. “Oo nga, kaya ko naman”. Sinasalamin ng pangkultural na aspeto yung itawa na lang para mapadali. Yung salitang, pinakagamit na salita natin, “bahala na si Batman”, “kaya ko yan”, doon nasasalamin.” {The type of humor I often use, especially as a teacher, is positive humor. My students need it to help lighten their workload. Since they have so many tasks, I use positive humor to make things easier for them. Through this approach, I influence them to feel more at ease—so they think, "Yes, I can do this!" This reflects a cultural aspect of Filipinos, where we use laughter to make things easier. We often say things like "Bahala na si Batman" (Let Batman handle it) or "Kaya ko 'yan" (I can do this), which show how humor is deeply embedded in our way of facing challenges.} | POSITIVE HUMOR |
Interpretation for Table 2:
The responses in Table 2 highlight the different types of humor used by Filipinos and how these humor styles reflect cultural values. One (1) participant identified sarcasm and irony as humor styles they use. One (1) participant mentioned "kanal humor" and positive humor. One (1) participant highlighted slapstick and sarcasm. One (1) participant noted the use of "kanal humor" and situational humor. One (1) participant identified positive humor as their preferred style.
Participants emphasized humor’s role in emotional expression, social bonding, and navigating cultural norms, aligning with Ancheta’s (2021) characterization of humor as a “Filipino national weapon” that highlights social issues and strengthens cultural identity. Through humor, Filipinos demonstrate resilience, resourcefulness, and optimism in the face of adversity.
Humor also plays a crucial role in social bonding. Many participants shared that humor strengthens friendships, particularly through shared styles like “kanal humor”. This aligns with Mendiburo-Seguel et al. (2015), who found that affiliative humor correlates with extraversion and emotional stability, suggesting that humor fosters stronger social connections and emotional well-being. However, humor’s impact is not always positive. Some participants noted that “kanal humor”, while entertaining, can challenge cultural norms and blur the line between acceptable and offensive humor. This highlights the need to balance humor’s social benefits with cultural sensitivity.
The findings also emphasize humor’s adaptability. Positive humor in educational and professional settings serves as a motivational tool, supporting Pearce’s (2022) argument that humor enhances learning and fosters a sense of belonging. Teachers using humor to engage students and lighten workloads demonstrate how humor extends beyond entertainment, shaping emotional resilience and social relationships.
Overall, Filipino humor reflects resilience, adaptability, and social cohesion, reinforcing the idea that humor is deeply embedded in Filipino identity, playing a crucial role in emotional well-being and cultural continuity.
CONTRIBUTION OF THE USE OF HUMOR TO EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE
Table 3: Contribution to Emotional Resilience
| P1 | “Sa tingin ko po, ginagamit nila ang humor sa pagpapalakas ng emosyonal na katatagan ng mga Pilipino sa gitna ng mahihirap na sitwasyon sa pamamagitan ng pagpapatawa sa kanilang mga sarili at sa pagbibigay ng pansamantalang relief mula sa stress at pagod. Ginagamit din nila ito upang makapag-usap tungkol sa mga sensitibong topic.” {I think humor strengthens the emotional resilience of Filipinos during difficult situations by making them laugh, providing relief from stress and exhaustion, and allowing them to talk about sensitive topics.} | EMOTIONAL STRENGTHENING, STRESS RELIEF |
| P2 | “So kagaya nga ng sabi ko, parang mas napapagaan ng humor na yon yung kalooban natin. Mas pinapalakas tayo nito, mas mino-motivate to move forward at harapin yung mga pagsubok natin sa araw-araw. So nakakatulong din siya para mabawasan natin yung isipin natin regarding sa problema na ‘yon and mas mag-focus sa pagpapatatag ng ating emosyonal na kapasidad para mas mabilis na masolusyonan yung problema na ‘yon.” {Like I said, humor helps lighten our emotions. It strengthens us, motivates us to move forward, and face our daily challenges. It also helps us worry less about our problems and focus more on building our emotional capacity so we can find solutions more quickly.} | MOTIVATION, COPING |
| P3 | “Ayun nga, tulad ng sinasabi ko kanina, yung iba or halos lahat naman, ginagamit nila yung humor bilang pampalakas ng loob nila. Kumbaga sa bawat hamon na pinagdaraanan nila, gumagamit sila ng mga humor upang mas mapagaan, or kahit papaano, hindi sobrang bigat para sa kanila. Kumbaga gamit ang humor, mas napapagaan nila yung problema na kanilang pinagdadaanan.” {As I mentioned earlier, most people use humor to boost their confidence. Whenever they face challenges, they use humor to make things feel lighter or at least not as overwhelming. Through humor, they can ease the burden of the problems they are going through.} | CONFIDENSE BOOSTING, EMOTIONAL STRENGTHENING |
| P4 | “Yung humors natin, nagagamit natin siya ‘di ba sa mga problema? And it is on our self kung papaano natin gagamitin yung humors natin para ma-cope natin yung ating mga problema. Example ako, ako kasi, kapag ako ay may problema, ano ako, malikot, madaldal, palangiti, kabaligtaran kapag kinakabahan. Kasi doon, napapakita natin, or napapakita ko na ‘yon yung nagsisilbing strength ko para mabawasan yung kaba ko. Kasi, totally, napaka-very helpful ng kung ano mang humor ang meron tayo, kasi makakatulong talaga siya para ma-lessen yung stress and isipin mo and very effective talaga siya. Especially ako, totally invested, kapag may mga kaba-kaba, especially iyan, tulad sa research defense, imbis na kabahan ka, syempre mag-iisip ka ng mga funny things para mabawasan yung stress, yung isipin. And siguro nagagamit naman ng lahat ‘yon, sana lang ipagpatuloy kasi very helpful talaga siya, especially sa ating mga students kasi maganda siyang way para mabawasan yung mental problems and stress.” {We use humor to deal with our problems, right? And it's up to us how we use our humor to cope with challenges. For example, when I have a problem, I tend to be restless, talkative, and always smiling—the opposite of how I act when I'm nervous. It shows that humor serves as my strength to reduce anxiety. Humor is incredibly helpful in lessening stress and overthinking, and it’s very effective. Especially for me, when I’m feeling anxious—like during a research defense—rather than letting nerves take over, I focus on funny things to reduce my stress and worries. I think everyone uses humor in some way, and we should continue doing so because it’s very beneficial, especially for students. It's a great way to ease mental stress and pressure.} | ANXIETY REDUCTION |
| P5 | “Para sa akin, tatlong bagay. Una, pagpapagaan ng iyong nararamdaman, pagpapagaan ng emosyon. Using that humor, mas nagiging madaling maharap yung situation na meron ka, mahirap man, magaan or mabigat, mas magiging madali para sa’yo, magiging magaan yung damdamin mo. Pangalawa, mapapadali kasi habang ok yung nararamdaman mo sa pagharap sa sitwasyon, dahil nga sa paggamit mo ng positive humor, ay mas madali mong maiisip yung magiging sagot, magiging solusyon. Pangatlo, masasagot mo ‘to. Makukuha mo yung result na gusto mo, yung positive result na gusto mo doon sa kinakaharap mong sitwasyon, tanong, o pangyayari.” {For me, humor serves three purposes. First, it lightens your emotions—regardless of whether your situation is difficult or not, humor makes it easier to handle and makes you feel better. Second, it helps you think more clearly. When you feel good while facing a situation, positive humor allows you to come up with solutions more easily. Third, it helps you achieve the positive outcome you want in whatever challenge, question, or situation you’re dealing with.} | POSITIVE MINDSET |
Interpretation for Table 3:
The responses in Table 3 highlight humor’s contribution in strengthening emotional resilience, particularly in stress relief, motivation, and adaptability. One (1) participant identified stress relief as humor’s primary function. One (1) participant noted that humor provides motivation and aids in coping. One (1) participant highlighted humor’s role in emotional strengthening. One (1) participant mentioned that humor helps in reducing anxiety. One (1) participant emphasized that humor promotes a positive mindset.
The findings of this study align with existing literature on humor as a coping mechanism. Schneider et al. (2018) found that affiliative and self-enhancing humor are linked to higher self-esteem and life satisfaction, which supports participants’ experiences of using humor for emotional relief.
Several participants noted that humor allows them to push forward rather than dwell on negativity. By maintaining a positive emotional state, they can assess challenges with a clearer perspective and find solutions without being paralyzed by fear or anxiety. This aligns with Nicomedes et al. (2020), who emphasized that Filipino resilience is influenced by personal and external factors such as family and community. Humor, as part of this coping strategy, enhances emotional regulation and supports resourcefulness (diskarte) in facing life’s uncertainties.
Some participants shared that in high-pressure situations—such as research defenses—they use humor to reduce nervousness and stay focused. This showcases emotional flexibility, a key component of resilience, and reinforces Schneider et al.’s (2018) findings on humor’s role in fostering optimism. It also supports Nicomedes et al. (2020), who suggested that while Filipinos are naturally resilient, mental health concerns persist, highlighting the need for effective coping mechanisms like humor to maintain emotional well-being.
Overall, humor is not merely a source of entertainment for Filipinos—it is a survival strategy that strengthens emotional resilience, encourages optimism, and helps them endure life’s toughest moments, cultivating a mindset that allows them to face difficulties with courage, positivity, and unwavering adaptability.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF HUMOR AS A COPING MECHANISM
Table 4: Advantages and Disadvantages as a Coping Mechanism
| P1 | “Ang paggamit ng humor ay nakakatulong sa pagpapatawa ng mga sarili at sa pagbibigay ng pansamantalang relief mula sa stress at pagod. Ngunit, maaari rin itong makasama kung mali ang pagkakaunawa at maaari rin itong magdulot ng pagkasira ng relasyon lalo na kung ang humor ay hindi tama sa sitwasyon o kultura.” {The use of humor helps people laugh and provides temporary relief from stress and exhaustion. However, it can also be harmful if misunderstood, potentially leading to damaged relationships, especially when humor is not appropriate for the situation or culture of the audience involved.} | STRESS RELIEF, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT, MISCOMMUNICATION |
| P2 | “One of the benefits talaga ng humor is para nga mabawasan or ma-lessen yung isipin natin regarding sa problema na ‘yon. But masasabi ko rin na although tinutulungan tayo ng humor na mapagaan yung problema natin, parang it is just a way na mapagaan lang yung problema, hindi yung totally maayos talaga kasi parang ito lang yung shortened way ng pagtulong sa atin para mas ma-relieve or mas maiwasan natin yung problema.” {One of the main benefits of humor is that it helps reduce or lessen stress related to problems. However, while humor helps ease our burdens, it doesn’t necessarily solve the problem completely. It only provides a temporary way to relieve stress or avoid dwelling on the problem.} | STRESS RELIEF, TEMPORARY SOLUTION |
| P3 | “Depede rin siya sa tao, pero kung ako yung tatanungin, mas tinitingnan ko yung paggamit ng humor as coping mechanism na advantage kasi tulad nga ng mga nasabi ko kanina, nakakatulong talaga siya para mas gumaan yung mga bagay na mabibigat. Sa disadvantage, meron din naman, kasi syempre baka akalain ng ibang tao na kinakaya-kaya mo lang yung problema mo pero deep inside ‘di pala. Pero mas lamang para sa akin na advantage. Siguro depende na nga sa tao kung paano niya gagamitin yung humor. Siguro depende na rin sa paggamit o sa paghalo ng humor sa mga bagay na ginagawa niya or mga problema. At some point, nakakatulong talaga siya, for me. Nakakatulong talaga siya na pagaanin yung mabibigat, kumbaga, hindi dahil sa humor naisasantabi mo yung isang problema, bagkus, dahil sa humor, nakakatulong pa siya sa’yo kung paano mo masosolusyonan yung mga bagay na gusto mo talagang masolusyonan.” {It depends on the person, but if you ask me, I see humor as an advantage when used as a coping mechanism. As I’ve mentioned before, it helps lighten heavy situations. However, there are also disadvantages. For example, some people may think you're handling your problems well when, deep inside, you’re actually struggling. Still, I believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. It all depends on how a person uses humor—how they incorporate it into their life and challenges. At some point, humor really helps. It doesn’t mean you’re ignoring your problems, but rather, it helps you find ways to solve them more effectively.} | EMOTIONAL STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE, MASKING PROBLEMS |
| P4 | “Para sa akin, mayroong advantage at disadvantage yung paggamit ng humor ng isang tao. Doon muna tayo sa advantage, sa advantage niya, with the use of our humors, nale-lessen niya yung stress na meron tayo. Ginagamit natin siya as coping mechanism para hindi natin isipin yung isang problema, and nakakatulong siya, tulad ng sabi ko, very effective siya sa pagpapatagtag ng stress. Kasi, ito yung nagsisilbi nating strength eh, dito tayo humuhugot ng lakas. And, despite that, meron din siyang disadvantages, like, ang humors kasi natin, nakadepende kasi ‘yan. Ginagamit natin siya, nakadepende sa nakakasama natin. Example, tulad ng sinabi ko, pwede tayong, magkakaroon tayo ng magandang connection if yung nakakasama natin ay yung ka-humor natin. And magkakaroon ng conflict o misunderstanding kapag yung nakasama natin ay hindi natin ka-humor, kasi syempre, hindi natin ka-humor, magkaiba tayo ng humors, hindi natin mage-gets ang isa’t isa. And ang paggamit din ng humor ay limited. Kasi minsan kailangan nakadepende siya sa lugar, and ang humor kasi natin dapat kaya nating i-control. Kasi minsan, yung mga bagay na akala nating jokes sa atin, akala natin… kasi syempre, sa atin, ginagamit natin yung humor to build emotional growth, minsan kasi yung humor natin hind lang pansarili eh. Nashe-share natin siya sa ibang mga tao, like our friends, and minsan hindi natin maiiwasan na makapagsabi tayo or makapagsalita tayo ng isang bagay na hindi naman natin meant na makasakit. Kasi nga, humor siya eh. Kumbaga bigla na lang na lumalabas sa bibig, bigla na lang siya kine-create ng our minds. Kasi ang humor, iba’t iba ‘yan. Hindi lang siya jokes, hindi lang siya kung ano lang, but minsan kasi, yung akala nating jokes sa atin, yung sa kanila ay hindi. So tulad nga ng sa mga social media, it depends upon sa atin kung paano natin gagamitin yung mga humor. Dapat gamitin natin siya sa tama.” {For me, humor has both advantages and disadvantages. Starting with the advantage, humor helps reduce stress. We use it as a coping mechanism to momentarily forget our problems, and it is very effective in relieving stress. It becomes our source of strength. However, there are also disadvantages. Our humor depends on the people we’re with. For example, we can form great connections with people who share our sense of humor. But when we're with people who don’t share the same humor, misunderstandings or conflicts can arise because we don’t "get" or understand each other. Also, humor should be used appropriately. Sometimes, what we think is just a harmless joke may unintentionally offend others. This happens because humor isn't just about jokes—it can take many forms. On social media, for example, the way we use humor depends on us. That’s why we should always use it appropriately.} | SOCIAL CONNECTION, MISCOMMUNICATION |
| P5 | “Ang benepisyo, ‘yon katulad ng mga sagot ko, ‘yon yung benepisyo. Napapadali, napapagaan, nagkakaroon ng mas kalidad na kasagutan kasi makakapag-isip nang may magaan na damdamin at emosyon, that is the benefits. Ang nagiging hamon naman sa paggamit natin ng humor, sometimes nao-overuse, nao-overpower na yung mga bagay na dapat nating i-priority dahil sa pagkikibit-balikat na lang natin dahil sa paggamit ng humor. ‘Yon ang nagiging hamon na nakakaimpluwensya pa sa ibang tao kasi nakikita nila na sa karamihan ng Pilipino ‘yon yung gamit ng humor, ‘yon ang nagiging hamon. Halimbawa, sa paraan ng pagboto, “Sino’ng iboboto mo?”, “Bahala na”. What will be the result? Lahat ng tao ganoon ang maiisip, paano sila pagdating ng eleksyon? Sino na lang ang iboboto nila? Sabi nila kung sino daw ang una doon sa balota, kung sino daw ang huling nagbigay ng tarheta, iyon ang iboboto nila. So, what will you expect would be the result nung magiging botohan? So yung nagiging hamon sa paggamit natin ng humor, kapag too much.” {The benefits of humor, as I’ve mentioned, include making situations lighter, improving emotional well-being, and helping people think more clearly because they feel less burdened. However, the challenge in using humor is when it is overused. Sometimes, it overshadows important matters because people become too dismissive due to their reliance on humor. This can influence others negatively. For example, in voting decisions, when asked, "Who are you voting for?" some people might respond with, "Whatever, it doesn’t matter." If everyone adopts this mindset, what will happen during elections? People would say they would vote for whoever is first on the ballot or the last one who handed them a campaign flyer. The result? Poor decision-making. This is the challenge of using humor excessively—it can make people take serious matters lightly, leading to consequences that affect not just individuals but society as a whole.} | INFLUENCE ON BEHAVIOR AND DECISION-MAKING |
Interpretation for Table 4:
The participants’ responses highlight both the perceived benefits and drawbacks of humor as a coping mechanism. Table 4 shows how humor provides emotional relief, enhances problem-solving, fosters social connections, and influences behavior while also carrying risks such as misinterpretation and avoidance of serious issues. One (1) participant identified stress relief, emotional support, and miscommunication as key aspects of humor.
One (1) participant noted humor’s role in motivation and problem-solving. One (1) participant emphasized humor’s influence on motivation, problem-solving, emotional strength, and resilience. One (1) participant highlighted humor’s role in social connection and miscommunication. One (1) participant identified humor’s influence on behavior and decision-making.
This aligns with Rilveria (2018), who identified humor as a crucial component of the Filipino Coping Strategies Scale. Participants emphasized that laughter lightens emotional burdens, preventing stress from becoming overwhelming. By reframing challenges through humor, Filipinos maintain hope and resilience, reinforcing the belief that laughter can serve as an emotional buffer.
Additionally, humor strengthens social bonds and fosters pakikisama (harmonious relationships), making difficult situations easier to endure. Shared laughter deepens connections, creating a sense of community support, which is vital for emotional resilience. However, Martin (2019) warns that not all humor is beneficial. Self-defeating or aggressive humor—where individuals use humor to mask pain or deflect serious conversations—can hinder emotional growth and contribute to psychological distress.
A critical concern raised by participants is the tendency to trivialize serious matters through excessive humor. One participant (P5) noted how humor influences political decision-making, where important issues are sometimes dismissed, leading to poor choices. This reflects Martin’s (2019) argument that when humor becomes a tool for avoidance rather than genuine emotional processing, it can prevent individuals from addressing critical concerns.
Overall, humor remains a powerful coping strategy for Filipinos, allowing them to reinterpret stress, maintain optimism, and build emotional resilience, but its effectiveness depends on mindful use—using humor to foster resilience without allowing it to become a barrier to emotional growth or meaningful problem-solving.
Chapter 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
- The answers of the participants are about humor’s functions in stress relief, confidence boosting, problem-solving, social bonding, and emotional resilience. One (1) participant emphasized that humor provides stress relief and facilitates conversations on sensitive topics. One (1) participant highlighted its role in daily stress management and emotional regulation. One (1) participant shared that humor boosts confidence and aids in problem-solving. One (1) participant discussed how humor strengthens social bonding, serves as a digital coping tool, and builds resilience through laughter. One (1) participant noted that humor contributes to emotional resilience and helps maintain positivity in challenging situations.
- The answers of the participants emphasized humor’s role in emotional expression, social bonding, and navigating cultural norms. One (1) participant identified sarcasm and irony as humor styles they use. One (1) participant mentioned "kanal humor" and positive humor. One (1) participant highlighted slapstick and sarcasm. One (1) participant noted the use of "kanal humor" and situational humor. One (1) participant identified positive humor as their preferred style.
- All the answers of the participants are about humor’s contribution in strengthening emotional resilience, particularly in stress relief, motivation, and adaptability. The One (1) participant identified stress relief as humor’s primary function. One (1) participant noted that humor provides motivation and aids in coping. One (1) participant highlighted humor’s role in emotional strengthening. One (1) participant mentioned that humor helps in reducing anxiety. One (1) participant emphasized that humor promotes a positive mindset.
- All answers of the participants show how humor provides emotional relief, enhances problem-solving, fosters social connections, and influences behavior while also carrying risks such as misinterpretation and avoidance of serious issues. One (1) participant identified stress relief, emotional support, and miscommunication as key aspects of humor. One (1) participant noted humor’s role in motivation and problem-solving. One (1) participant emphasized humor’s influence on motivation, problem-solving, emotional strength, and resilience. One (1) participant highlighted humor’s role in social connection and miscommunication. One (1) participant identified humor’s influence on behavior and decision-making.
CONCLUSION
- The study’s findings reinforce that humor is more than just entertainment—it is an essential psychological and social mechanism for Filipinos that enables individuals to cope with adversity while maintaining a sense of optimism and adaptability in the face of adversity.
- The study’s findings revealed that Filipino humor reflects resilience, adaptability, and social cohesion, reinforcing the idea that humor is deeply embedded in Filipino identity, playing a crucial role in emotional well-being and cultural continuity.
- The study’s findings revealed that humor is not merely a source of entertainment for Filipinos—it is a survival strategy that strengthens emotional resilience, encourages optimism, and helps them endure life’s toughest moments, cultivating a mindset that allows them to face difficulties with courage, positivity, and unwavering adaptability.
- The study’s findings revealed that humor remains a powerful coping strategy for Filipinos, allowing them to reinterpret stress, maintain optimism, and build emotional resilience, but its effectiveness depends on mindful use—using humor to foster resilience without allowing it to become a barrier to emotional growth or meaningful problem-solving.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Mental health professionals and educators should incorporate humor-based stress management strategies, while individuals who use humor as a coping mechanism should actively apply these strategies to enhance their emotional resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
- Schools, workplaces, and community leaders should promote awareness of different humor styles and their impact on social bonding, emotional expression, and cultural norms, encouraging individuals who use humor as a coping mechanism to use humor positively and effectively.
- Mental health professionals should develop interventions that maximize humor’s benefits in stress relief, motivation, and adaptability, guiding individuals who use humor as a coping mechanism to recognize and avoid potential drawbacks.
- Teachers, parents, and mental health advocates should educate individuals on the mindful use of humor, while individuals who use humor as a coping mechanism should practice using humor in ways that foster resilience, enhance problem-solving, and maintain emotional well-being without avoiding serious issues.
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