# The Psychology of Play and Laughter

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/psychology-takeaway-podcast-7255442/the-psychology-of-play-and-laughter
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/psychology-takeaway-podcast-7255442/the-psychology-of-play-and-laughter.md
Podcast: [Psychology Takeaway Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/psychology-takeaway-podcast-7255442)
Published: 2026-02-06T16:11:43+00:00
Episode link: https://psychologytakeaway.podbean.com/e/the-psychology-of-play-and-laughter/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/nr3dw5jqpqgkha6t/Friday_February_6_2026_at_10_09_02_AM_default_c108958b_1_aqdyv.m4a
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Duration seconds: 2009

## Resource

In an era marked by chronic workload pressure, social fragmentation, and rising rates of burnout, play and laughter are not optional extras. They are essential processes that support psychological and physical health. At the neurochemical level, laughter is associated with increased dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation, motivation, and learning. At the same time, laughter reduces cortisol levels, dampening the physiological stress response. The story of Norman Cousins attests to the value of humor in his book Laughter is the Best Medicine. LEARN MORE: For burn victims: https://youtu.be/SLHi6H5lOwE?si=F0nHune7trneoVDr What science shows: https://youtu.be/yqvMIoGXJQE?si=tMIPAeAQR2bQvOR1 A long (hour and a half) video with Cousins as he describes his illness and recovery: https://youtu.be/oYKpmnCS5lQ?si=rJaiaoAEwUoGumFx

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## Transcript

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