Watching someone fall over, walk into a door, or just miss the bus are among the top ten things that leave Brits in stitches—even though they know they shouldn’t find them funny.
A poll of 2,000 adults found that, on average, we laugh at something inappropriate or insensitive four times a month, with someone falling off a chair topping the list of guilty giggles.
Other moments that get us chuckling include watching people chase after money or paperwork blowing away in the wind, and even children tasting sour or spicy food for the first time.
Despite half of Brits finding these mishaps amusing, 37% admit they’re left red-faced when the tables are turned and the joke’s on them.
When something embarrassing happens to them, Brits say the feeling lingers for hours, and for 10%, it can take days to recover.
The research was commissioned by Doritos Flamin’ Hot, which is launching two limited-edition “Flamin’ Hot or Not?” packs, and Walkers MAX, where one in four crisps packs a fiery punch.
Spokesperson Rob Pothier said: “There’s a universal, somewhat mischievous thrill in witnessing others experience misfortune or discomfort. Whether it’s someone tripping or eating spicy foods – we often can’t help but laugh.
“We know that as a nation, Brits love spicy food and these challenges shouldn’t be taken too seriously. It is these moments that bring us closer together as we look back and laugh at them.”
It seems we’re more likely to laugh at friends than strangers. Four in ten say mishaps are funnier when they happen to someone they know. Meanwhile, 29% admit they’re more likely to laugh at misfortune on a TV show than in real life.
Watching people struggle with food that’s too spicy makes 43% of us laugh, and despite the pain, 26% say they enjoy eating spicy snacks themselves.
A third would even take on a ‘hot and spicy’ challenge for the chance to win cash, with four in ten Brits convinced they can handle the heat.
Other ‘painful’ challenges people are willing to try include walking long distances and climbing mountains. Beyond the lure of money, the main reasons are enjoying the challenge (48%), having a laugh (39%), and the thrill (38%).
The Doritos Flamin’ Hot spokesperson added: “The adrenaline rush of tasting the crisp and finding out you haven’t got the spicy one is incredible.
“Topped off by the likelihood that someone else will get it, makes it even sweeter!”