Analysis of humor skills among elementary school students: comparisons of children with and without intellectual handicaps.

Differences in the comprehension, production, and appreciation of humor were explored among students who were achieving normally (20 second graders, 21 fourth graders) or had learning disabilities (14 fourth graders) or developmental handicaps (12 fourth graders). Comprehension of humor was assessed by explanations of what made cartoons funny. Production was assessed by completion of captionless cartoons. Appreciation was evaluated by ratings of funniness and facial mirth. Results indicated that children without handicaps comprehended the cartoons better than did the students with intellectual handicaps. No production differences were observed. Students who had intellectual handicaps demonstrated age-appropriate appreciation ratings; however, students with developmental handicaps lacked differential sensitivity.