Social bonding relies on shared physiological experiences, such as heart rate synchronization, rather than just direct interaction.

“Often a really wonderful time can be by virtue of the specific things that were said or the specific things that one engaged in but more often than not the final common pathway we should say of great experiences was a great physiological experience and a shared physiological experience.”

Playful teasing and embarrassment serve as important social mechanisms that signal commitment to a group and reinforce trust among members.

“The more that they got embarrassed, the better they liked each other because it's it's turning to this motor pattern of like, "Wow, I'm showing you that I care about what you're accusing me of and I'll get embarrassed. You see that in me, we become closer."”

Sharing embarrassing stories or personal vulnerabilities helps bond with others and shifts the tone of social interactions.

“when you make fun of yourself you allow people to bond with you over the [ __ ] that's relatable in life”