Aggressive humor as a tool for [de]stigmatization of mental illness: theoretical review

The present study is aimed at summarizing and systematizing modern research on aggressive humor and its impact on the level of mental illness stigma. One of the most important factors determining aggressive humor’s destigmatizing effect is whether the joker belongs to the group being ridiculed (in the case of humor about mental illness — being diagnosed with a mental disorder). Modern research on subversive humor is analyzed. In the context of mental health, it serves as a tool for expressing dissatisfaction with mental health services, questioning socially accepted boundaries of “being normal” and fighting stigma. The main goal of subversive humor in the communication of mentally ill individuals with medical personnel and people considered healthy is to go beyond the stigmatized position of a patient, the desire to communicate as equals. The risks of using subversive humor are associated with the fact that its intention often remains unclear. It may cause negative reactions from other people, which in turn would neutralize joke’s destigmatizing effect. In the worst case scenario, it may even strengthen the stigmatizing attitudes towards mental disorders. It is concluded that in many cases, healthcare workers may be able to achieve a stronger therapeutic alliance by supporting a patient`s humorous communication, rather than by confronting it.

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