PROPAGATING BAD TASTE: NO ONE IS LAUGHING AT IT, THEY'RE LAUGHING AT YOU

Speaking as an HR Professional, I'm all for a good joke, clip, or funny meme on social media. But using a photo of a man who lost his arms in combat and using his likeness for a "knock, knock" joke... that's in horrible taste. Not only that, it's disrespectful to the family and demonstrates bad behavior. Some things among the unwritten rules of social conventions are just not acceptable. However, some people have issues accepting that certain behaviors are rude and are quick to play the victim when they're called out on their conduct. Here's a good example of a bad one:

(SORCE: SCV Alamo City Guards, Camp 1325 Facebook Page.)

MODERN DAY HUMOR: Since I have family in almost every branch of the military and first responders, I get it. The modern-day veterans' and first responders' sense of humor is irreverent, it's dark and vulgar. But humor is used in a variety of ways. It is used to relieve stress and tension, to deflect or conceal emotional injuries or traumas, or to convey a certain message to make people stop and think. But even humor has limits to what is funny and what isn't. What you may think is funny; may not be to your audience or be ineffective in conveying your message. One example that is a majority source of humor, is Schadenfreude. Which is the experience of pleasure, joy, or self-satisfaction that comes from learning of or witnessing the troubles, failures, pain, suffering, or humiliation of another. Depending on how the situation is, Schadenfreude can be extremely humorous or the early signs of narcissism and or bullying. USING HUMOR TO CONVEY A MESSAGE: To use humor appropriately in conversations, and understand different humor types, like puns, sarcasm, and wordplay. Start with simple humor and ensure it’s positive, avoiding sensitive topics. Practice in safe environments and learn from others. Be patient and avoid excessive sarcasm or complex jokes. Positive humor, as the name suggests, is humor that is encouraging, uplifting, and doesn’t seek to undermine or offend others. This type of humor can improve relationships, boost morale, and create a friendly environment. It’s always safer to avoid making jokes at the expense of others, especially about sensitive topics like someone’s appearance, race, religion, or nationality. While humor can be a powerful tool in conversations or expressing a thought, it’s essential to be mindful of potential pitfalls. An inappropriate joke or a misunderstood punchline can easily lead to awkwardness, misunderstanding, or even offense.

OFFENSIVE HUMOR: Perhaps one of the most common and crucial mistakes to avoid in using humor is offensive humor. Jokes about sensitive topics such as race, religion, sexuality, personal appearance, or any form of derogatory or prejudiced humor are not appropriate and can easily offend, even if unintended. Offensive humor can hurt feelings, damage relationships, and even lead to serious social consequences. It’s crucial to remember that humor should bring people together, not alienate or offend. Even if a joke seems harmless to you, it might not be to others. Not to mention, can land you in situations that can lead to serious and or legal consequences.

IN CONCLUSION: While humor can be used to convey a message, remember your target audience. In this modern-day cancel culture world, someone can easily be offended by what jokes are used and how they can be illustrated. Certain lines should never be crossed, and in the end, you must be respectful of others. Bad jokes that are considered offensive lead to bad taste and demonstrate bad behavior.