Jokes can make people laugh, brighten a difficult day, and bring friends closer. However, humor can become harmful when it targets someone’s appearance, mistakes, family, beliefs, or personal struggles. What seems funny to you may be embarrassing or painful to someone else.
If someone becomes uncomfortable, stops laughing, or asks you to stop, take their feelings seriously. Do not simply say, “I was only joking.” Instead, apologize sincerely and learn from the situation. Remember, good humor does not require making someone feel bad. Before making a joke, pause and think about its possible effect. Will it make someone feel included or left out? Will it create happiness or embarrassment?
Choose kindness whenever you are unsure. Being funny is great, but being respectful comes first.
Mitch Justine D. Martin Staff Reporter kids/1788844508/1613368258
1. When can humor become harmful?
2. What should you do instead?
3. What should come before humor?
1. Should jokes always be kind?
2. How can jokes hurt others?
3. What makes a joke respectful?
Jokes can make people laugh, brighten a difficult day, and bring friends closer.
