The Evolution of Humour: A Generational Analysis Dad Jokes and Dark Humour among Boomers and Gen Z

Abstract

Humour can be seen as entertainment but in addition, it indicates the cultural values, emotional coping methods, and social images that are particular to various generations.  Despite extensive research on humour as a topic, there is minimal scholarly literature to explain the impact of specific humour types and preferences. To fill this gap, the paper explores unique humour preferences through a psychological, social, and cultural framework that helps shape the humour styles of Baby Boomers and Generation Z. Both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews were used in a mixed-methods design that enabled a detailed investigation. A sample of 50 purposively selected participants was drawn to represent each of the generational cohorts with respect to their demographic characteristics. Quantitative data would be collected via structured questionnaires to assess differences in humour preferences, and qualitative data were collected through 8 semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed definite generational distinctions: Baby Boomers enjoyed dad jokes because of their emotional congruence and their ability to establish deeper connections, whereas members of Generation Z preferred dark humour because of its role as a coping mechanism and means of social identification. Moreover, Generation Z was more open to sharing humour online even when it involved taboo topics compared with Baby Boomers, who appreciated humour in more closed and traditional environments. The study concludes that Baby Boomers tend to prefer humour that reinforces tradition and evokes a sense of emotional familiarity, whereas Generation Z is more drawn to humour characterised by complexity, subversion, and responses to contemporary fears and concerns.These findings can guide educationists, media practitioners, and mental health care providers in promoting empathy, communication models, and emotional adaptation among age groups.