Why Do People Laugh and What Triggers a Joke?

People laugh because something unexpected or silly happens, like when you trip over your own shoelace! When we hear a joke, our brain expects one thing and gets another. That surprise makes us feel happy and causes us to laugh. It's like when you're waiting for ice cream and instead get a surprise cake, it's so much better!

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Examples

A kid sees their mom eating a sandwich made of cookies and says, 'This is the best day ever!', and laughs because it's completely silly.
Your friend tells you they're going to the beach, but then adds, 'and I'm bringing my pet iguana.' That’s just funny enough to make you giggle.
You’re told a joke about a chicken crossing the road, and then the punchline makes you laugh because it was unexpected.

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Categories: Psychology · humor,laughter,psychology of jokes