Why is it funny when partners argue in TV situation comedy. But not when we fight in real life?

Answer 1

Because on TV the actors have funny put downs. In real life people say very hurtful things.

Answer 2

When scenes are presented in situation comedies, we are (generally) laughing because we identify with the situation that going on. "Earnest discussions" between partners on TV are funny because we aren't involved, yet we can relate to what is going on and the apparent absurdity of it all. As third party observers, we are often presented with set-ups for the situation and can see how misunderstandings and misinformation have led to the comical point.

When fights occur in real life, we are more personally involved in what is going on. More to the point, because of this emotional investment it can be hard when the discussion takes a turn into the unexpected and uncomfortable. What was funny as an outside observer isn't so funny when you are trying to keep track of what is happening in person, and/or don't quite understand how the argument came about. Add to this the fact that the people closest to us - in our minds at least - are supposed to care and love us, not fight with us, and disagreements can be very hurtful.

Answer 3

Good Question. I think that we see the comedy in a situation that isn't of our doing. But in real life we take it seriously because it matters to us. An argument is only an arguement if two people care in some way about it or themselves.

Merry Christmas

Answer 4

This is because an argument on telly is not real life. You can vent your frustration without harming anyone. Also, if the argument on TV becomes too much - you can simply switch off the TV or change channels. You can't do that in a real life argument.

Answer 5

Because we vicariously enjoy seeing the other (fictional) people go through some of the same things we have. The closer it is to our own experiences, the funnier it is. As long as it doesn't cross the line into real perceivable pain on the part of the TV characters - they mostly trade barbs and quips - smart and funny in most cases.

Answer 6

I'd be your wacky next-door neighbor [name: Millie or Susie], who comes over to borrow something different every week -- but it's just a ruse so she can steal other things in your house. She puts the stolen item under her sweater, then she also steals your plunger thingy, but you catch her everytime and get the plunger thingy back -- but she still gets away with the other item still hidden under her sweater. It's a brilliant running gag that makes the audience howl -- until the sixth episode, when people start writing to the producers demanding that they kill off poor Millie or Susie because she's so predictable. Hollywood writers ARE pretty crappy these days, aren't they?

Answer 7

It is a show to entertain. Everything in TV always goes smooth and everyone planned it and directed the show. What happens every day is out of your reach. Thats why in TV its always funny while in life it is something very serious.

Answer 8

TV is acting, real life is real. The words last long after the fight is over. Instead of fighting, why don't you simply sit down with whom ever your fighting with and try to talk it out.

Answer 9

Because you know the difference between television Fiction and Real Life situations. If you didn't, your friends and family should be really worried.

Answer 10

Because on t.v you are not doing the fighting, and it's not fun fighting in real life especially if your the one doing the fighting. I could still laugh at a couple thats fighting in front of me