Of course it's a defence mechanism. I make jokes about EVERYTHING. That way I don't have to face the reality that lots of things are really stuffed up.
Yes, of course jokes can be used as a defense mechanism. As you state, humor can be used as a way of deflecting from things they hate, are jealous of, or intimidated by. It can also be used as a way of dealing with or deflecting from uncomfortable & new situations, depression, and fear.
True , I guess I was really thinking of those situations where someone ends up in tears and the perpetrator says something along the lines of we were only joking ... But there a steel barb hidden amongst the word
Oh, I knew what you were referring to. I am ashamed to say that I used to do that very often as a teenager. It was my way of keeping people from getting too close.
Isn't teenage years just another learning period?. As Long As you don't do it now ... 10 hail Mary's and a donation
This post was edited by Benedict Arnold at April 18, 2017 8:33 AM MDT
Yes. Teenage years are a huge learning period. I didn't grow out of that phase for quite a while. It took removing myself from people that fed the habit.
Aww. It looks like your childhood learning has stayed with you. Hail Mary's don't have an effect on me. And no one's getting a donation from this selfish dog. ;-)
Hi O-uknow, I truly think that for some very special people, humour can be how they really do respond to difficult situations...and it is authentic...that they are somehow seeing more deeply than the rest of us, and respond with gentle inclusive humour.
This quote from Oscar Wilde; "Life is much too important to be taken seriously."
I think the other answermuggers thus far have addressed my thoughts, too, I think. (03/18/17)
I have an anxiety disorder (and some thinking patterns that I work to change) and one of the most powerful tools in dealing is my sense of humor. I HAVE to see the humor of the things that happen in my head -- they, indeed, can be funny - - (the ridiculous lengths that my imagination can go) -- and acknowledging the humor and my humanness can propel me beyond the momentary stressors (that I often create in the first place). Crazy, I know.
But when I and people in my life can laugh at it all, it helps.
So, I don't think I'm using humor to deflect how I'm really feeling -- I think I realize most of the time how I'm feeling -- I'm just using humor to help deal with those feelings.
:)
UPDATE: I realize that I skipped over the key word of your question -- "When." I didn't address that aspect. Good question you've asked.
This post was edited by WelbyQuentin at April 18, 2017 10:03 AM MDT
Welby Quentin, you have mentioned a couple of thoughts about humour very significant for me also...its therapeutic benefits, and the fact that one can cultivate it...
* * * I worried a bit that I did not address this question directly...that I went off on my own tangent...
I tend to easily go off on my own tangents quite often. :) I see your answer as pertaining to the question. But as I read my answer again, it seems I traveled to my own tangent land. :)
Pearl, other people have told you this, but I also really enjoy and appreciate your posts...they are so direct, and to the point. You were away from AnswerMug for a few days, and I am glad to see you back now!
Benedict Arnold 