Seeing somebody fall over tops the listing of issues we giggle at – however know we shouldn’t
Us ‘adults’ laugh at things we really shouldn’t with falling off a chair, ripped trousers or chasing money in the wind the top things that make us chuckle
Watching someone fall over, walk into a door – or run to catch a bus and just miss it are among the top 10 things we laugh at – but know we shouldn’t find funny.
A poll, of 2,000 adults, found they laugh at something inappropriate or insensitive four times-a-month, with someone falling off a chair most likely to leave them chuckling.
Others admit to sniggering when they see someone trying to chase after money or paperwork blowing away in the wind while some even laugh at children eating sour or spicy food for the first time.
But despite 49% finding moments of misfortune happening to others funny, 37% feel embarrassed when they happen to them.
The research was commissioned by Doritos Flamin’ Hot.
Spokesperson Rob Pothier said: “There’s a universal, somewhat mischievous thrill in witnessing others experience misfortune or discomfort.
“Whether it’s someone tripping or eating spicy foods – we often can’t help but laugh.”
The study found a moment of misfortune lives with Brits for at least a few hours after it’s happened.
But for 10%, it can be days before they feel they can get over it.
Being best ‘frenemies’ seems to be the case for many, as 42% find moments of misfortune are funnier when they happen to someone they know, rather than a stranger.
Although, 29% are more likely to laugh at a moment of misfortune on a TV show than in real life.
The research, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed watching people feel the burn of food that is too spicy for them makes 43% laugh.
10 things we shouldn’t laugh at but do
1. Falling off a chair
2. Walking into a door
3. Being pooped on by a bird
4. Trying to push or pull a door that is clearly labelled the opposite
5. Badly performed karaoke
6. Tripping over
7. A wardrobe malfunction (ripping trousers etc)
8. Eating spicy food they thought they could handle but found it too hot
9. Chasing money or paperwork in the wind
10. Umbrella turning inside out
