Enforced humour annoys patients

Researchers investigating the working of a special “humour ward” in a hospital caution that a regime of a joke a day for each patient, cartoons on the doors, and jokes on the walls may not be to every patient's liking.

They say that some patients, especially those in pain, are not amused by enforced humour.

“Often humour attempts are not welcome by patients, especially when they are in pain, in low spirits, or are feeling depressed,” said the team (Health Communication 2003:15;319-30).

In …