Test of an information-processing model of humor: physiological response changes during problem- and riddle-solving

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Neuroscience of Emotion
• Humor Research

Background:

• Cognitive models propose humor arises from problem-solving.
• Berlyne's theory links arousal changes to aesthetic appreciation, including humor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test cognitive problem-solving models of humor.
• To investigate physiological responses during humor appreciation.
• To examine Berlyne's arousal-change hypothesis in humor.

Main Methods:

• Continuous monitoring of heart rate and skin conductance.
• Subjects responded to structurally similar riddles and problems.
• Comparison of physiological changes during problem-solving versus riddle-solving.

Main Results:

• Heart rate accelerated upon presentation and decelerated upon resolution.
• Significant differences in skin conductance were observed between riddle and problem solving.
• Higher humor appreciation correlated with moderate arousal changes.

Conclusions:

• A purely cognitive problem-solving model may not fully explain humor.
• Physiological responses, specifically skin conductance, differentiate humor from mere problem-solving.
• Findings support Berlyne's hypothesis regarding arousal and appreciation in humor.