Title: Psychology behind defense mechanisms: Using humor to cope (Part 4 of 4)
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Psychology behind defense mechanisms: Using humor to cope (Part 4 of 4)
Content: Self-deprecating humor can arise when an individual pokes fun at himself or herself. This can be endearing, as it indicates that the person has a sense of humor, but it can also highlight low self-esteem and insecurities. In Charles P. Silet’s publication entitled “The Films of Woody Allen: Critical Essays,” he notes, “Freud defines humor in general as a socially accepted outlet for repressed ideas…” Silet ties this to the self-deprecating humor of Woody Allen and similar comedians, stating, “…Freud set the precedent for studies of Jewish humor when he suggested that Jewish humorists are the butt of their own jokes.” In the context of self-deprecation, humor is an opportunity for people to joke about their own insecurities before others have the opportunity to do so. Sarcasm is sometimes employed to belittle or mock others. In this sense, sarcasm can be a defense mechanism aimed to direct aggression toward another individual under the guise of humor. Cyndi Sarnoff-Ross, LMFT, explains that people who use humor at the expense of others are often “defending against their own insecurities.” Humor can be a helpful defense mechanism used to cope with unpleasant circumstances or past trauma. However, this habit can turn destructive when used to hurt others or conceal an individual’s insecurities or anxiety.