Is It Bad When Couples Make Fun of Each Other in Public?

We’ve all been there…

Sitting awkwardly while a couple fights in front of everyone.

We don’t know if we should laugh, intervene, or just sit there.

This is poor etiquette from the couple…

However, on the flip side, lighthearted teasing between couples can create a fun and engaging atmosphere when done correctly.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to appreciate the fine line between harmful and entertaining banter.

When I was younger, I believed making fun of others in any form was negative.

But now, I recognize that couples who have been together for years often develop a natural rhythm of playful teasing.

The Good vs. the Bad Kind of Teasing

The key difference between good and bad teasing is intention and reception.

Here’s the difference:

Bad Teasing:

• Insulting or belittling someone in front of others
• Bringing up sensitive topics like weight, insecurities, or personal failures
• Exposing private information that could embarrass the other person

Good Teasing:

• Lighthearted and meant to entertain, not harm
• Poking fun at well-known quirks in a way that the person finds amusing
• Delivered with a warm tone and a smile, rather than a harsh tone

For example, let’s say a couple is discussing how they make decisions.

If one partner tends to overthink things, the other might say, “Paula, you always take forever to pick a movie! Something about you and Netflix…’

If Paula laughs and acknowledges this as true, then it’s all in good fun.

However, if she feels called out or embarrassed, it crosses into harmful territory.

Understanding Sensitivity in Jokes

People have different thresholds for humor.

What one person finds hilarious, another might find offensive.

This makes teasing tricky because you never know exactly where someone’s limits are.

The best approach?

Pay attention to how your partner reacts, and if they seem upset, acknowledge it and adjust accordingly.

Some conversations are simply not meant for public display.

Arguments, serious discussions, or overly personal remarks should be kept private.

No one wants to see a couple hashing out their issues at a dinner party.

If you find yourself in a situation where teasing has gone too far, check in with your partner.

A simple “Hey, I didn’t mean to embarrass you back there…are we good?” can go a long way.

The Social Benefits of Playful Couples

Couples who master the art of playful teasing tend to bring good energy to social gatherings.

Their jokes are engaging, their interactions feel natural, and they keep things lighthearted.

Over time, they become known as the “fun couple”, the ones who keep the room entertained without making anyone uncomfortable.

Early in relationships, couples are often overly sweet to each other.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, some couples constantly fight, making everyone around them uneasy.

The sweet spot?

A middle ground where playful teasing shows familiarity and love without veering into hostility.

If you want to incorporate humor into your relationship, read the room, pay attention to how your partner reacts, and keep it lighthearted.

At the end of the day, the best jokes are the ones that bring people closer together, not the ones that push them apart.

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– ArmaniTalks