Teasing as affection

In Thailand, being teased is often a sign you've been accepted. Colleagues แซว you about your love life, your love of som tam, how you got so tanned, or your new haircut. Comments on weight or skin can sound blunt to newcomers but are usually meant warmly or simply as observation. The best response is to laugh and tease back lightly (แหม พี่ก็…), or play along with self-mockery. Avoid getting visibly upset: it makes the teaser feel bad and shifts the mood. Know the line, though: ล้อ can become hurtful, and teasing someone senior in front of others is risky. When in doubt, tease yourself.