Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor (AATH) is an international community of professionals who incorporate humor into their daily lives.  AATH is the leader in providing evidence-based information about current research and practical applications of humor.

AATH is both a personable network and a resource for humor and laughter authorities and enthusiasts. Our membership is occupationally diverse, representing our pillar communities:  Health & Wellness, Seniors & Aging, Education, Spirituality & Faith Communities, and Business.

Established in 1987, our mission is simple yet challenging:

To advance the understanding and application of humor and laughter for their positive benefits.

Our members include professionals who incorporate humor and laughter into their lives and work, people committed to humor and laughter, scholars and researchers who study humor and laughter, and all who feel they would benefit from this organization. Humor and laughter are used to enhance work performance, support learning, improve health and as a coping tool.

Official Definition of "Therapeutic Humor":

Any intervention that promotes health and wellness by stimulating a playful discovery, expression or appreciation of the absurdity or incongruity of life’s situations.

This intervention may enhance health or be used as a complementary treatment of illness to facilitate healing or coping, whether physical, emotional, cognitive, social or spiritual.

Officially adopted by the AATH Board of Directors on June 1, 2000.

What We Know About Humor & Laughter

Click here to download pdf file.

                                                   Congratulations to our 2008 Winners:

                                                                 SCHOLARSHIPS

                   The Dave Family “Humor Studies” Scholarship                   

Barbara Miller - Eugene, OR

The Margie Klein “Paper Plate” Scholarship

Rachel Oliver - Ontario, Canada

The Patty Wooten Scholarship

Judy Oliverio - Temple Terrace, FL

The Lenny Ravich “Shalom” Scholarship

Jessica Milner Davis
"UNDERSTANDING HUMOR IN JAPAN"

Good Humor Award

Mary Huntley & Edna Thayer

"A MIRTHFUL SPIRIT: EMBRACING LAUGHTER FOR WELLNESS "

NEW - Call for Volunteers!