Aggressive and Harmless Humor

Within the area of humor research, there are two broad characterizations of humor that are studied in terms of their interpersonal and intrapersonal [Page 17]outcomes. One characterization, harmless humor, is good natured and usually results in positive outcomes (e.g., enjoyable social interaction). The other characterization, aggressive humor, is used with malicious intent and is much more likely to result in negative outcomes (e.g., disparagement) than harmless humor. This entry discusses the basic information that is known about both of these broad types of humor and addresses some of the potential outcomes associated with each.