Why are people ticklish?

Answer 1

Being ticklish is a complicated trait rooted in our evolutionary past. Two searches, "physiology + ticklish" and "why are we ticklish," turned up a number of articles that helped us understand this touchy, feely human feature.
Scientists suggest that being ticklish is our defense against creepy crawlies like spiders and bugs, a physiological response alerting us to a specific type of threat. That is why vulnerable parts of our bodies -- feet, chest, and armpits, are among the most ticklish.

While there is no question that being ticklish is neurological, scientists contend that it is also learned. One theory sees ticklishness as a personality-based response to perceived attack. Antsy folks may laugh uncontrollably at the lightest touch, or even without being touched at all, while folks made of sterner stuff won't budge during more aggressive tickle attacks.

If you close your eyes and try to remain calm while you are tickled, you can decrease panic, reduce giggles, and dull sensation. And, no matter how hard you try, it is nearly impossible to tickle yourself.

Tickling satisfies our human need to touch. Robert R. Provine, a professor of neuroscience and author of Quest for Laughter, sees the tickle as a form of communication between friends, family, and lovers, playing a key role in the evolution of social and sexual behavior. He points to chimps tickling each other during play, parents tickling little kids, and lovers tickling each other affectionately.

Answer 2

I am not sure anymore. I read somewhere why people are, but I know I am ticklish and I hate when I am ticklish!

Ok, I decided to look it up and here it is what it said:

"Scientists suggest that being ticklish is our defense against creepy crawlies like spiders and bugs, a physiological response alerting us to a specific type of threat. That is why vulnerable parts of our bodies -- feet, chest, and armpits, are among the most ticklish. "

I do wish I wouldn't be though because my husband isn't and he just doesn't understand!

Answer 3

People don't have as highly developed senses as animals or insects. Some animals have fur, some animals have excellent sight, some have pinpoint hearing or some physiological evolution that protects them and gives them a proximity warning of close objects within their personal space. People cover up with clothing and wear shoes and therefore can't use their flesh to detect any harmful objects. The nerve center endings on the feet are close to the same nerve endings stimulated during sex and thats how some people can be tickled to orgasm...

Answer 4

I used to be really ticklish and got sick of friends using it to entertain each other so I got over it. I am not ticklish now unless I choose to be, go figure!

Answer 5

This is really a nice question for inquisitive people. With that, let me inform you it is due to acute nerve endings. Foe people who are ultra ticklish, their nerve endings are more pronounced.

Answer 6

its a nerve in their brain making certain spots ticklish

Answer 7

Its because of the sensitive nerve endings that are close to the skin on certain parts of the body

Answer 8

Because laughter is vital to our health and some people have no sense of humor.

Answer 9

nerve sensitivity. It is because our nerves work extra hard and it is just a reaction.

Answer 10

Im not so am i out of the ordinary.