Most people refer to it as “teasing” or “practical jokes,” but I prefer to call it “antagonism” or, at times, “emotional abuse.” I’ve been labeled “too sensitive” and “uptight” for my views on pranks, with suggestions that I should just relax or “lighten up.” However, I firmly believe that pranks that rely on someone feeling genuinely distressed to deliver a punchline are not funny at all.
From Ashton Kutcher’s early 2000s MTV show “Punk’d” to elaborate April Fools’ pranks, prank phone calls, or even casual teasing about someone’s quirks—I dislike all of it. I vividly recall being a teenager, riding in my mom’s car, listening to a local radio DJ prank an unsuspecting man into thinking his wife was pregnant despite him having a vasectomy. The guy would become furious, sometimes even crying, and every time I heard those calls, my heart raced with empathy. Was I the only one who found this cruel rather than humorous?
Even when the prank was intended to teach a lesson—like addressing a man’s irrational jealousy—I still felt terrible for the person being tricked. The usual outcome was relief and laughter when the DJ eventually revealed it was all a joke. But often, the person would hang up, clearly furious at having been made a fool.
I didn’t watch many episodes of “Punk’d” since they left me with an uncomfortable feeling. While I don’t mind lighthearted April Fools’ jokes, I can’t stand those that humiliate or upset someone for a laugh.
I even dislike light teasing where someone tries to “trick” another into believing something distressful, pushing the lie until the victim is genuinely worried only to say, “Just kidding!” afterward. “Your pet is lost! Your child flunked out of school! You’re being audited!” Why is any of this amusing?
I detest the notion of embarrassing or frustrating someone for laughs. Criticizing someone and then calling it a joke is not teasing; it’s gaslighting. Despite being labeled “no fun” or “uptight” because I refuse to partake in making others uncomfortable, I don’t see myself as a spoilsport. My partner lovingly teases me, and I never get offended. With my kids, we often joke around, but we always ensure no one is genuinely hurt.
We recognize the difference between playful banter and mean-spirited jabs. We are in tune with each other’s feelings and know when to stop. I understand some people have an unspoken agreement in their social circles where pranks are fair game. In that case, go ahead—have fun. Just don’t include me if you know I dislike pranks. If you try to prank me, it won’t end well for either of us, and you may find yourself out of my life. Consent is crucial, and making someone feel bad for your entertainment is simply wrong.
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In summary, I am unapologetically against pranks and teasing that cause distress. While some find humor in such antics, I believe they can lead to emotional harm. I value consent and kindness over cruelty disguised as humor, and I will not engage in behavior that makes others uncomfortable.