Introduction

To possess a good sense of humour or at least to laugh freely and frequently at humorous and pleasurable events is regarded as thoroughly healthy and desirable by virtually all those who have concerned themselves with the subject of humour. The average man is also firmly committed to the belief that having a reputation for a keen sense of humour is something to be treasured and protected. Amongst samples of college students Allport (1961) and Omwake (1937) found that only 6% and 1•4% respectively were prepared to admit to a lower-than-average sense of humour. In the words of Frank Moore Colby [quoted by Bergler (1956)]: ‘Men will confess to treason, murder, arson, false teeth or a wig. How many will own up to a lack of humour?’