As for gelotophobia, psychologist Willibald Ruch of the University of Zurich said it was first proposed as a distinct phobia - and given a name-about a decade ago.

As for gelotophobia, psychologist Willibald Ruch of the University of Zurich said it was first proposed as a distinct phobia — and given a name — about a decade ago.

Gelotophobia, a rare condition where people are afraid of laughter, is relatively unexplored by the scientific world. The BBC hears what life is like for people with the phobia.

University of Zurich researchers René Proyer and Willibald Ruch first identified the components and correlates of “gelotophobia” (literally, fear of laughter) in a 2009 publication along with ...

The revised scale measured three dispositions: national gelotophobia (fear of others laughing at one’s nation), national gelotophilia (enjoying being laughed at as a nation), and national ...

Those who suffer from gelotophobia, or fear of being laughed at, dread even well-intentioned jokes. “They don't trust friendly laughter—that someone is just enjoying themselves.

Gelotophobia: The fear of being laughed at Introduction and overview. Humor: Humor: International Journal of Humor Research 22 (February):1-25. DOI 10.1515/HUMR.2009.001 Proyer, R., et al. 2009.

Gelotophobia was more prevalent among younger participants, females, and participants who were not in a relationship. Approximately 6% exceeded a cut-off score indicating at least a slight expression ...

University of Zurich researchers René Proyer and Willibald Ruch first identified the components and correlates of “gelotophobia” (literally, fear of laughter) in a 2009 publication along with ...