An examination of the role of cognitive load in processing Nigerian Pidgin humor
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Background of the Study
Humor processing is a complex cognitive phenomenon that requires the integration of linguistic, cultural, and affective cues. In Nigerian Pidgin, humor often relies on puns, code-switching, and unexpected semantic twists that impose a significant cognitive load on the audience. Recent cognitive theories suggest that when individuals are presented with humorous content, the brain must rapidly resolve ambiguities and reconcile incongruent information to produce an affective response (Adeyemi, 2023). Nigerian Pidgin humor, with its dynamic and context-specific vocabulary, may therefore demand higher levels of cognitive resources compared to standard language forms. Studies in cognitive load theory indicate that excessive mental effort can impede processing efficiency, yet moderate load may enhance creative thinking and humor appreciation (Oluwaseun, 2024). This study aims to investigate how varying levels of cognitive load affect the processing and appreciation of Nigerian Pidgin humor by employing reaction time measures, eye-tracking, and subjective humor ratings. The research will compare performance on humor recognition tasks under conditions of low and high cognitive load, providing insights into the optimal balance of mental effort for humor comprehension. Understanding these dynamics could inform both linguistic theory and practical applications such as educational tools and humor recognition systems designed for multilingual environments (Babatunde, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the recognized role of cognitive load in language processing, little is known about its specific influence on the comprehension of Nigerian Pidgin humor. Standard humor studies often overlook the linguistic variability and cultural specificity inherent in Nigerian Pidgin, which may result in atypical cognitive demands. This gap in research limits our understanding of whether increased cognitive load enhances the resolution of humorous incongruities or, conversely, overwhelms cognitive resources leading to misinterpretation. Such ambiguity hinders the development of effective humor-based educational interventions and automated language processing tools tailored to Nigerian Pidgin. It is therefore essential to systematically examine cognitive load effects on humor processing to identify strategies that optimize comprehension while preserving cultural authenticity (Adeyemi, 2023; Oluwaseun, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To measure the cognitive load associated with processing Nigerian Pidgin humor.
2. To compare humor comprehension efficiency under varying cognitive loads.
3. To develop recommendations for leveraging humor in educational and technological applications.
Research Questions:
1. How does cognitive load affect reaction times in humor recognition tasks in Nigerian Pidgin?
2. What is the relationship between cognitive load and subjective humor appreciation?
3. Which cognitive factors most significantly influence humor processing efficiency?
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it elucidates the interplay between cognitive load and humor processing in Nigerian Pidgin. Findings will enhance theoretical models of humor comprehension and inform the design of culturally sensitive educational tools and language technologies. By identifying optimal cognitive conditions for humor appreciation, the study supports interventions that harness humor to boost learning and creativity (Adeyemi, 2023; Babatunde, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses exclusively on cognitive load effects during the processing of Nigerian Pidgin humor among adult speakers, using behavioral and eye-tracking assessments. It does not extend to other humor genres or age groups.
Definitions of Terms:
• Cognitive Load: The total mental effort required to process information.
• Nigerian Pidgin Humor: Comedic expressions in Nigerian Pidgin characterized by wordplay and cultural nuances.
• Humor Processing: The cognitive and affective processes involved in understanding and appreciating humor.
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