When Jokes Won't Do: Affective Shifts in U.S. Late-Night Comedy

"Affective shifts occur in a comedic context, where the expectation is to be entertained, yet they transition from humor to serious emotions like fear or anger."

"These shifts serve to persuade the audience about the gravity of an issue, emphasizing the importance of the topic at hand."

News avoidance is increasing as people feel overwhelmed by negativity. In contrast, late-night comedy has gained popularity, offering audiences a way to cope with turmoil. During crises, audiences often seek catharsis from their favorite hosts, who sometimes deliver somber monologues. These emotional responses, termed affective shifts, combine humor with serious emotions to highlight the gravity of issues. Affective shifts involve a transition from humor to seriousness, aiming to persuade audiences about the importance of various topics.

Read at Apaonline