What is teasing and how does it hurt?

Teasing involves making fun of someone in a playful or mocking manner, often meant to elicit laughter. However, it can hurt when it crosses a line into ridicule or targets sensitive topics, leading to feelings of shame, isolation, or anxiety. The emotional impact of teasing can undermine self-esteem and foster negative self-image, particularly if someone is repeatedly subjected to it. Ultimately, what might seem like harmless fun to some can be deeply damaging to others.