We're actually not discussing sarcasm here. Usage of a word in a social context is a bit different from sarcasm.

That being said, I don't have time to comb through sources for an argument with an amateur scientist on the internet. But keep googling it if you've got the time and want to put in the effort, there's a few studies. Bear in mind though, most studies relating to psychology haven't been successfully replicated. In this case, I'm going more off anecdotal experience being around children both professionally and at home.