University Communications and Marketing
630 Pioneer Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4482
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(248) 370-3184
social@oakland.edu
APRIL FOOL'S
What is primarily a social media engagement campaign, April Fool’s at Oakland University has evolved into a multi-pronged communication effort that has become a tradition in its own right. April Fool’s is an opportunity to creatively engage with the entire OU community with potential far-reaching and long-lasting benefits.
While it might seem cruel in the moment, April Fool's has proven to be a fun and lighthearted event that people talk about for years to come.
The psychology behind April Fool's:
Michele Parkhill Purdie, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Psychology Department at OU. She spoke with local media about the benefits of a good April Fool's joke. Hear Dr. Michele Parkill Purdie's interview on WWJ.
"There is a psychology behind pranks like this. For those being pranked, the prank itself (and then subsequently 'getting' the joke) allows for a bit of self-reflection and perhaps even being humbled. We realize that others can 'get' us with a prank. Across both the prankers and pranked, there's a huge element of group cohesion. These pranks, particularly because they are being played out on such a big level, will create a greater identification with the OU community. Students will feel a bit more connected — it's something they can all laugh about. And years down the road, I would bet a lot of students will reflect on these pranks very positively. A university — stereotypically a staunch, serious place of study — is demonstrating that we can have fun around here. It's good for everyone involved."