People who send memes to maintain friendships often display these 7 behaviors, says psychology

Olivia Reid by Olivia Reid | February 17, 2025, 10:29 am

If you’ve ever received a funny meme from a friend in the middle of a workday, you know how it can instantly lighten your mood.

But have you ever stopped to think about what that simple act says about the sender’s personality traits?

Psychology tells us that individuals who use memes to maintain friendships often display certain behaviors.

And understanding these behaviors could change how you view your meme-sending pals.

In this article, we’ll explore these seven behaviors in depth, offering some insights into the minds behind the memes.

But don’t worry, we’ll keep things light and fun, just like those viral images that fill your inbox.

1) They are great communicators

In the world of psychology, memes are more than just funny images or clips.

They’re a form of communication, a way to share a laugh, an idea, or even a sentiment.

Those who often send memes to their friends tend to have quite the knack for communication.

They understand that humor can be a powerful tool, not just for amusement, but for expressing thoughts and feelings in an easily digestible manner.

Meme-senders are often up-to-date with current trends and popular culture.

They use this knowledge to connect with their friends on a shared level of understanding, making their communication more effective and engaging.

But remember, it’s not just about sending memes left and right.

It’s about choosing the right meme for the right person at the right time. That’s where their communication skills truly shine.

2) They’re always in the loop

I’m sure we all have that one friend who always seems to be a step ahead when it comes to the latest viral trends, news, or memes.

For me, that’s my buddy, Jake.

Jake is the kind of guy who sends me the latest memes even before they start trending on social media.

I’ve often found myself laughing at a meme he shared, only to see it pop up on my feed hours or even days later.

This constant awareness of what’s happening online isn’t just about being updated. It’s about being connected.

By staying in the loop, Jake is not just entertaining himself; he’s also maintaining his connections with his friends.

Sending relevant and timely memes shows that they’re engaged and invested in the relationship.

It’s like they’re saying, “I saw this, and it reminded me of you,” which can mean a lot in a friendship.

3) They have a good sense of humor

Humor plays a big role in our social interactions.

It helps us bond with others, brings joy to our lives, and can even help us cope with stress.

Those who frequently share memes usually have a keen sense of humor.

They appreciate wit and cleverness and have a knack for finding hilarity in everyday situations.

People who enjoy humor and engage in laughter are often more resilient. It’s true.

These qualities can help us manage stress and bounce back from adversity more effectively.

It’s not just about making someone laugh with a well-timed meme. It’s also about spreading positivity and resilience through humor.

4) They’re empathetic

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

It’s a crucial trait for maintaining strong, healthy relationships, and it’s something that frequent meme-sharers often possess.

This might be surprising, but think about it: when they come across a meme that they think will resonate with you or make you chuckle, they’re putting themselves in your shoes.

They’re considering your tastes, your sense of humor, and even your current mood.

This act of thinking about what will make you smile or feel understood is a clear sign of empathy.

By sending you a meme that they believe will hit just right, they’re demonstrating their understanding and consideration of your feelings.

5) They value their friendships

I remember a time when I was going through a rough patch. Things weren’t going my way and I was feeling pretty down.

During that time, a steady stream of memes from a friend of mine became a small beacon of light amidst the gloom.

The memes she sent weren’t always hilarious or trending.

Some were silly, some were downright corny, but they all had one thing in common: they made me feel seen and valued.

Through her memes, my friend was saying, “I see you, I care about you, and I’m here for you.”

It was a small gesture, but it made a world of difference to me.

People who frequently send memes to their friends often do so because they genuinely value these relationships.

They understand that friendships require effort to maintain and they’re willing to put in that effort.

Even if it’s as simple as sending a meme to brighten someone’s day.

6) They’re adaptable

The internet is a fast-moving place, and meme culture is no exception. What’s hilarious today may be old news tomorrow.

Staying relevant in such a dynamic environment requires adaptability.

People who regularly send memes to their friends are usually good at keeping up with these changes.

They adapt quickly to new trends and formats, tweaking their meme-sharing habits to stay current and relevant.

This ability to adapt isn’t just useful online. It’s a valuable trait that can help them navigate changes and challenges in real life too.

The next time you receive a fresh meme from a friend, remember: you’re interacting with someone who knows how to roll with the punches, both online and offline.

7) They understand the power of connection

At the heart of it all, people who regularly send memes to their friends understand something fundamental about human relationships: the power of connection.

They know that sharing a laugh, sparking a conversation, or simply reminding someone that they’re on your mind, strengthens bonds.

It’s not about the memes themselves.

It’s about what they represent – shared experiences, mutual understanding, and a sense of community.

It’s about maintaining connections in a world that can often feel disconnected.

If you have a friend who regularly fills your inbox with memes, take a moment to appreciate them.

They’re doing more than just sharing a laugh; they’re fostering connection, one meme at a time.

Wrapping it up: It’s about the bond

At the end of the day, our behaviors and preferences are complex tapestries woven from a multitude of threads – culture, upbringing, personality traits, and yes, even our penchant for sending memes.

Those who often share memes with their friends are communicative, humorous, empathetic, and value their relationships.

They’re adaptable and understand the importance of maintaining connections with those they care about.

But here’s the key takeaway: behind every meme shared is a simple, yet powerful intention – to strengthen a bond.

To say, “I thought of you when I saw this”, or “This made me laugh and I hope it does the same for you”.

The next time a meme pops into your inbox from a friend, take a moment to appreciate not just the humor it brings, but also what it signifies – a shared moment in your friendship, a reminder of your connection.

Whether it’s a laugh-out-loud cat meme or a thought-provoking comic strip, remember: it’s not just about the meme itself.

It’s about the bond it represents and strengthens. And isn’t that what friendship is all about?