If the victim just became angry without cursing, the gag did not have the same impact. I began to realize that the goal was to provoke obscene language, and when the victim obliged by offering his choicest vulgarities, the group approved and rewarded him. Peer pressure can be very subtle at times, but its purpose is always to encourage others to conform. You have seen people do this, and maybe have even done it yourself. In essence, you exerted pressure on them to conform to your desire, then felt pleased when you got them to do what you wanted.
People encourage others to wear the same clothes they do, calling it stylish or fashionable.
They pressure them to use the same language, to smoke, drink, lie, steal, and so on. They applaud people who conform, who do what they do or wish they could do. It is very common for people not only to encourage others to behave certain ways, but even abuse those who will not. People will pressure others who do not adhere to their standards. If you choose not to indulge in the same behavior someone else does, you can expect them to ridicule you or even become abusive.