Often used between close friends as a form of affection, flirting, or group cohesion. It typically involves a friendly tone, mutual laughter, and the ability for the target to tease back.
Teasing functions along a spectrum from prosocial (bonding) to antisocial (bullying). teens teasing
Characterized by a "power imbalance," where the teaser has more social standing and uses ridicule to put the other person down. This form of teasing often targets sensitive, unchangeable traits like appearance, weight, or family. Recognizing When a Line is Crossed Often used between close friends as a form