Teasing in hierarchical and intimate relations

Following E. Goffman's (1967) face threat analysis of social interaction, i t was hypothesized that the aggressive, playful content of teasing would Va ry according to social status and relational satisfaction, personality, rol e as teaser or target, and gender. These 4 hypotheses were tested in analys es of the teasing among fraternity members (Study I) and romantic couples ( Study 2). Consistent with a face threat analysis of teasing, low-status fra ternity members and satisfied romantic partners teased in more prosocial wa ys, defined by reduced face threat and increased redressive action. Some fi ndings indicate that disagreeable individuals teased in less prosocial ways , consistent with studies of bullying. Targets reported more negative emoti on than teasers. Although female and male romantic partners teased each oth er in similar ways, women found being the target of teasing more aversive, consistent with previous speculation.