Katharina Buczek
Plus, the researchers observed that different species showed a liking for certain types of pranks. Chimpanzees were fond of slapping adults who were dozing off, while orangutans had a particular penchant for hair-pulling. Additionally, gorillas typically opted for a straightforward approach by pushing others.
Mirroring human behavior, the majority of the interactions observed across the four species typically involved a younger ape repeatedly pestering an older one, aiming to elicit a reaction.
Then, when their initial attempts failed, the apes intensified their antics to provoke a response. Oftentimes, this resulted in the older ape engaging in reciprocal teasing. Tickling and stealing were common comebacks among the adults, in contrast to more aggressive actions like hitting or body slamming.
This suggests that the humor we find familiar as humans is also present in apes. In other words, in order for teasing to be successful– involving both instigation and a response– it requires at least some level of willingness from both parties involved.
According to Marina Davila-Ross, a communication evolution researcher who was not part of the study, teasing is often linked to humor, but it also plays a role in understanding social dynamics.
For example, when a young ape teases another and doesn’t receive a response, it informs the teaser about the limits of their interaction with the other individual.
This is crucial for learning about social integration and hierarchy formation within their group.
Inside jokes, playful teasing, and even flirtation are all typical ways in which humans use teasing positively in social settings.
So, although the researchers refrained from making assumptions about the exact reasons behind the apes’ teasing behaviors, their observations imply that such actions serve a social purpose in ape communities.
Additionally, these findings hint at a shared ancestral link between apes and humans, one that likely had a fondness for a bit of mischief.
To read the study’s complete findings, visit the link here.
