The Influence of the Laughing Programs on Self-esteem and Stress Coping Behaviors in Elementary School Student

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to survey on the influence of the laughing program on elementary school students' self-esteem and stress coping behaviors. Methods: In total, 43 children (grade 4~6 students) were recruited for self administered questionnaire. Questionnaire was composed of general characteristics, self-esteem, and stress coping behaviors. Ten week course of laughing program was scheduled to the Experimental group, meanwhile no program was given to the control group. Results: The median self-esteem scores in the experimental group was increased from 30.05 to 34 (Z=-2.375, p<.05). Meanwhile control group did not show significant change. The median inactive/avoidant coping scores in the experimental group was decreased from 10 to 9 (Z=-2.028, p<.05). Meanwhile control group did not show significant change in any items of stress coping behaviors. Conclusion: Laughing program may be helpful to improve stress coping behaviors through reducing inactive/avoidance coping as well as to strengthen self-esteem, especially among participants who had low self-esteem before the intervention.

Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of a Health Promotion Program Using School Forest and a Traditional School-based Health Promotion Program in Elementary Students

“…Particularly regarding establishing good health habits, which affect subsequent health status in later life, childhood is regarded as an important period. Accordingly, many attempts have been made to improve child's health behavior through various school-based health promotion programs; these programs have reported positive effects on physical [1][2][3], mental [4], and social health [5] among school-aged children.…”