There are some things that seem so obvious to us, for example, the statement that people enjoy hanging out with friends. What you may not know is that science and research have actually proven this! Data from several studies has shown that people feel closer and more connected to someone when they share laughter together. A recently published longitudinal study showed that students’ test scores improved when they reported laughing with peers at least once a month. 

Playfulness and laughter can be important tools in your mentoring relationship. As a friendship-based mentor, you have the chance to focus on the bonding opportunities that can bolster your relationship during your visits. You can do this, and stay child-led, by simply providing your mentee with a few options on how to spend your time together and being fully present with them. Don’t be afraid to act silly and lose a little inhibition. Playfulness demonstrates your willingness to engage with your mentee and creates strong feelings of affinity for both parties.

Mentoring studies have shown that humor and playfulness can go a long way in making your mentee feel safer and at ease in the relationship, and they are effective at diffusing tension in difficult conversations. Scientists discovered that mentees reported feeling understood to a greater extent when they shared laughter more regularly. There are new studies suggesting that laughter is not just a sign of close connection, but perhaps actually the cause of it!

So what’s so special about laughter? It’s a clear bid for connection in a positive and playful manner that shows openness in the relationship and willingness to engage. It also can evoke feelings of understanding and shared experience. Additionally, there are biochemical reactions that occur in our bodies when we are laughing that decrease stress hormones and make us physically feel better. 

The type of humor matters. Studies found that when people felt the humor was punching down, aimed at those with less power or mean-spirited, people felt less trusting in their relationships. Like everything else in your mentoring role, humor must be approached mindfully. Remember to show kindness in your humor, not only to produce the best results, but because you’re role-modeling how to be a good friend.

Whether you’re using laughter as a way to create a safe and fun environment for your new mentoring match, or a way to relate over shared experiences in a well-established match, we strongly encourage you to make playfulness and laughter a big part of your mentoring relationship. 

Source:  https://www.evidencebasedmentoring.org/laughter-a-neglected-but-vital-element-of-mentoring/