Understanding the impact of dark humour on wellbeing of Indian college students

This qualitative study investigates the role of dark humour in the lives of Indian college-going young adults. While research has established the benefits of positive humour styles for wellbeing, this article focuses specifically on dark humour—characterised by its engagement with distressing topics and norm-violating content. Data has been collected using focus-group discussions with 25 students from different years of college education and disciplines. Thematic analysis findings have been presented through three themes of conceptualisation of dark humour, navigating wellbeing and social ambiguity. Findings reveal that college students use dark humour as a tool to communicate and express their personal and social concerns, helping them find solidarity in this phase of transitions, pressures and expectations. Despite these adaptive benefits, the risks of isolation and emotional harm are also navigated and highlighted by them. The article advances theoretical understanding of dark humour’s unique psychosocial functions and impact in the context of emerging adulthood, wellbeing and college campus environment.