This article emphasises the need for research into how the concept of gender shapes our use of language. One way of elucidating gender-related language usage is by studying how women and men use jokes and humorous remarks in different contexts, as well as focusing on what types of jokes are considered appropriate for men and women. Jokes might seem like a trivial subject for a linguist. However, in our opinion, managing responses constitutes an integral part of human interaction. In private conversations, women are shown to joke and communicate freely. Despite the fact that the female gender role is limiting, it can also provide women with a freedom and flexibility of language not found elsewhere. We have reached the conclusion that women censor their language and behaviour depending on the situation and the company. Furthermore, we have been able to ascertain that men and boys use more jokes than women in public conversations. Our gender roles socialise us into expecting girls and boys to behave differently, also in this respect. Men and boys are expected to use more jokes. They are also allowed to joke in situations where women cannot. Our school observations, as well as our scrutiny of televised debates and talk shows, confirm this. Women also refrain from joking during job interviews and similar situations. This article is based on two separate studies. Despite dissimilarities in focus and data collection, both studies point to similar results:

Men and boys use jokes more frequently than girls and women. There is a gender-related difference in the content of the jokes. Gender roles restrict women, especially in public situations, and prevent them from using humorous remarks or jokes for fear of not being considered serious.