Benign Violation Theory is a psychological framework that explains how humor arises from the interplay between violations of social norms and the perception of those violations as non-threatening. According to this theory, a situation can be funny if it simultaneously presents a violation—such as a taboo or an unexpected event—while also being perceived as benign or safe. This balance allows individuals to laugh without feeling uncomfortable or offended. The theory was developed by researchers including Peter McGraw and Caleb Warren, who conducted studies to understand the conditions under which humor occurs. They suggest that humor is most likely to emerge when the violation is mild and the context allows for a playful interpretation, making it easier for people to engage with the humor without negative feelings.