Laughter Therapy with Clowns: Experiences of Hospitalized Children at San Ignacio Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Hospitalization can generate negative emotions in children, affecting their emotional well-being. Laughter therapy with clowns is used as a strategy to mitigate these effects.

Objective: To describe the experience of hospitalized children receiving laughter therapy with hospital clowns and explore its long-term impact.

Methods: Qualitative study with a phenomenological approach conducted at San Ignacio Hospital, Bogotá, Colombia, between September 2020 and March 2021. Data were collected through drawings, photographic records, and semi-structured interviews at three points: before and after the therapy, and prior to discharge. Data were analyzed based on predefined categories: negative emotions, positive emotions, places, objects, activities, individuals, and health status. Laughter therapy sessions were conducted via video calls due to pandemic restrictions.

Results: The study included 15 children aged 6 to 12 years (7 girls and 8 boys). Twelve children received laughter therapy, all of whom reported happiness after the intervention. Negative emotions were identified in 9 children but disappeared after the therapy. Two children remembered the clown before discharge.

Conclusion: Laughter therapy with hospital clowns appears to transform negative emotions into positive ones in hospitalized children. However, its effects are temporary, suggesting the need for routine implementation. Furthermore, the virtual modality could serve as an effective tool to humanize healthcare, particularly during pandemics or in geographically isolated patients with limited access.