Expressing humor varies from person to person as people do it differently. However, others do not know where to put the boundary when it comes to humor. When is it time to say just joking and offensive humor? That is for each person to understand and decide upon. If you find someone’s jokes distasteful, here are some tips through which you can confront someone whose humor is offensive.
Talkspace, an online therapy platform, has recently released an article that gives insight on how to confront someone who does not have a good sense of humor. Talkspace has a wide variety of therapists who are meant to help you stay on track with yourself.
Do a self-Check in
This is all about asking yourself how you feel about that particular person. Therapists believe that emotions are an integral part when it comes to decision making and motivations. Feelings tend to give out critical information as we move through our daily operations. To begin with, ensure you are clear with why you find this joke or humor offensive. This will help you be more straightforward and on point with what you want to say. If you decide to confront the person, are you ready to adjust to the boundaries set and move on?
It takes a lot of courage and strength to confront anyone, let alone confront them because of their humor. If the person makes jokes about something that concerns you and your life, you will likely get a little bit charged. If you feel you cannot manage and control these feelings, it might be time for you to call it quits. You need to be on your best behavior and calm when doing this.
The Environment
No matter how emotionally strong you are, it is not easy to challenge someone about their offensive humor. It is, therefore, vital that you assess your environment first before confronting them. Is the environment safe? Are the other people feeling uncomfortable about the joke too? Get the answers to these questions before the confrontation. For instance, confronting a comedian at a stage is harder than confronting someone at a family gathering. The environment will also give you a clear indication of the reply you will get out of the confrontation.
What Is The Relationship?
When confronting, take note of the relationship between the two of you. What will be the implications of your confrontation? What is your past, and are you ready for the future you two will have. If the person is a close friend, you might want to preserve the relationship even after the confrontation. You will not want to shame them but take time to understand them and tell them in a manner that will not harm them. If it is a continual problem, put them on notice that you might be forced to use other means if it continues. If the person is a stranger, note that this is a different situation and that you might not know how they may react. In such instances, consider your safety more than what you have to say to them.
Last but not least, ensure that you are safe. This is, whether physically or emotionally. Whether you want, you feel right or wrong to confront the person, ensure that your safety comes first. Talkspace is a platform that will solve all your therapy needs.
