Why Do We Tell Jokes to People We Know?

We tell jokes to people we know because they understand us better. When someone knows you well, your jokes feel funnier, it's like sharing a secret that only the two of you get. Jokes also help you bond and feel closer.

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Examples

A friend laughs at your joke because they know it's one you always tell together.
Your mom tells a silly story only you and she find funny because it reminds her of when you were little.
You make a joke about school, and your best friend gets it right away, it feels like the two of you share a secret.

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Categories: Psychology · humor,social behavior,psychology of relationships