Does all of this mean that Freud was correct or partially correct in his
description of humor? Perhaps. One problem researchers face when interpret-
ing these studies is that alternative explanations are often possible (Kuhlman,
1985; Nevo & Nevo, 1983). For example, many findings can be explained in
terms of incongruity (McGhee, 1979). According to this analysis, humor re-
sults from an inconsistency between what we expect in a situation and what
happens in the joke. Thus the reason people find sexual and aggressive hu-
mor funny may be because sex and aggression are out of place in the jokesetting. Imagine a movie scene in which two sophisticated women bump into
each other at a department store. Imagine further that they either get into a
physical fight or say something with sexual connotations. We may find thissituation funny for the reasons outlined by Freud. But it might also bring a
laugh because we do not expect women to act this way when shopping.
Thus, although we can say that some research supports Freud ’s theory, it is
probably best to conclude that much more needs to be learned about what
people find funny and why.
HYPNOSIS
A psychologist is giving a classroom demonstration of hypnosis. Several stu-
dent volunteers sit in the front of the room. They are told to relax and that
they are becoming drowsy. The hypnotist tells them they are in a state of
deep hypnosis and that they will do whatever he says. Soon the students close3.03.54.04.5Perceived Funniness
Low
TensionModerate
TensionHigh
Tension
FIGURE 4.3 Perceived Funniness as a Function of Tension
Source: Based on Shurcliff (1968).Hypnosis 85