Abstract
Beginning with autoethnographic reflections, this paper considers the response of humor (immoral humor and holy humor) to mental health diagnoses—specifically, to neurodivergence, dyslexia, and OCD. It asks: (a) what it looks like when laughter is used by those in positions of power in a way that causes harm; (b) how humor may be used as a form of resistance; and, (c) how the experience of laughter can be used in a way that facilitates inclusion and safety. The paper points to “immoral humor” as a cause of stigma, trivialization, and disempowerment. This is a humor grounded in misunderstanding and misrepresentations about a person’s experience, resulting in a negative impact on mental health. “Holy humor,” on the other hand, understands truth and seeks to bring hope to the powerless. It is a humor which has the ability to dismantle social power dynamics, and thus can act as an act of micro-resistance and ownership. Laughter, when used correctly, can be a gift. When spaces are created where laughter is properly understood, and where people are encouraged and supported to be themselves, neurodivergent people will thrive.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 157-170 |
| Number of pages | 14 |
| Journal | Journal of Disability & Religion |
| Volume | 29 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| Early online date | 18 Dec 2024 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 3 Apr 2025 |
Keywords
- dyslexia
- obsessive compulsive disorder
- neurodiversity
- mental health
- humor
Access to Document
- Duncan_etal_JDR_Laughing_With_Me_VoR
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