Classic: You laugh all the time?

mrsconn23 · January 2022

I am a thirtysomething female engineer who cannot stop laughing. Whenever I have a work conversation or an interview I chuckle throughout the conversation no matter the topic. This is harming my work relationships because people feel I am not taking them seriously. My dad is the same way. I would say it is partially nervousness except that I also do it with close loved ones. I have had a work discussion go like this: “Are you laughing because you think it’s funny that my land rights are being litigated?” And I reply: “No, I am laughing because it is so terrible.” Is there a short-term behavioral therapy that might help or something easy that could help in work situations? I don’t want to erase this feature; I like laughing and I think my friends understand.

charlotte989875 · January 2022

I’d almost be worried this is an ability to control your laughing/ impulses. You know it’s inappropriate and knowing that you haven’t been able to stop. Do you have other impulse/ control issues? Sure talk to a counselor but I’d get screened for other issues.

Or you’re a sociopath and are actually laughing at someone who has had something horrible happen to them.

mrsconn23 · January 2022

I'm a nervous laugher, so I can understand that impulse.

But it sounds like LW literally laughs her way through all interactions? It's affecting their ability to look professional. Also, I bet your friends find it annoying AF.

STARMOON44 · January 2022

Absolutely seek therapy for this.

short+sassy · January 2022

STARMOON44 said:

Absolutely seek therapy for this.

Speaking to a medical doctor might also be helpful. Just to rule out it isn't something physical/neurological going on that is causing this. Like an involuntary tic, except it's laughter.

I'm also a little bothered that the LW doesn't seem to understand how serious this is. They don't even want to "erase" this feature. Yes, laughter is great. But laughter a person can't control is not.

In the example they gave, it sounds like they offended a client. I suspect they've offended a lot of people in their life by laughing inappropriately.

downtondiva · January 2022

Laughter is great, but it isn't always appropriate. You already admit that you have offended people with uncontrolled laughing. You need to talk to a doctor and/or a therapist about this, because you need to learn to control it in both professional and personal interactions. This isn't just something you should be concerned about in regards to work.