Why Do People Laugh When They're Nervous?

Sometimes when people are nervous, they laugh. It might feel strange, but it's a way to help them calm down. Imagine being on stage and suddenly laughing, your brain is trying to make you feel less scared by turning tension into fun.

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Examples

A kid laughing nervously before giving a presentation
A person chuckling during an awkward first date
A group of friends laughing together when one of them slips on the floor

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Categories: Psychology · laughter,nervousness,stress response