Most of Us Clap at Concerts, Even If We Don’t Mean It

If you’ve ever found yourself reluctantly applauding at the end of a terrible concert, you’re not alone. According to a new poll, 60% of Americans say they’ll clap no matter how bad the performance is . . . because it’s polite, expected, and less awkward than sitting in silence.

That leaves about a third of us who aren’t so generous with our applause. In fact, 31% say they only clap if the performance actually deserves it. Then there’s the 7% who aren’t even sure what kind of clapper they are, and the rare 2% who claim they never clap at the end of shows. (Which feels oddly specific and a little suspicious.)

So why do so many people fake the applause? Social pressure.

One in four Americans admit they’ve clapped just because everyone else was doing it, not because they actually enjoyed what they saw.

The same goes for those spontaneous standing ovations, where you’re not sure if you’re honoring a theatrical triumph or just trying to see over the tall guy in front of you.

And while some of us might give every act a round of applause—especially if there’s free wine involved—others draw the line at certain events. Kids’ school recitals, for example, seem to be a tipping point for even the most automatic clappers. No offense, Timmy, but that wobbly rendition of “I’m a Little Teapot” isn’t quite Grammy-worthy.

Still, applause is a weirdly powerful social cue. It’s one part appreciation, one part herd mentality. And even if the performance was a dud, sometimes clapping is more about acknowledging the effort than the execution.

So next time you’re at a show that didn’t quite stick the landing, go ahead and clap if you feel like it. Or don’t. But if you do find yourself standing, applauding, and questioning your life choices . . . you’re not alone.