Abstract
International review of gelotophobia (the fear of being laughed at) researches is presented. Russian-language
adaptation of gelotophobia questionnaire is carried out (n = 216); its high reliability (α = 0,83) and
one-factor structure were confi rmed. Gelotophobia intensity is shown to be independent of demographic
variables (gender, age, marital status). The score of 7.41% of Russian subjects exceeded the threshold
level, thus indicating the light degree of gelotophobia. Cross-cultural analysis indicated that occurrence
of gelotophobia in Russia is lower than in German, higher than in Austria and close to those in China and
Switzerland. Gelotophobia in citizens of towns with low population (Kostroma) is higher than in citizens
of big ones (Moscow).
Stefanenko, E A