We’ve always been told that gossiping is bad, but new research suggests that it may actually be beneficial. In moderation, talking about other people can lead to better mental health, less stress, and even stronger social ties, according to recent research from the University of California, Berkeley and other international studies.
According to the study, people’s heart rates rise when they observe negative behavior, which is an indication of stress. However, they become less stressed when they talk about what happened. To put it another way, expressing your feelings about what you witnessed can help you relax. Scholars refer to this as “pro-social gossip”—that is, gossip that protects or warns others rather than spreading hate or lies.
Psychologists also discovered that gossip encourages self-reflection. Hearing about someone else’s failure or achievement can inspire you to better yourself and your decisions. Furthermore, oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” which increases feelings of support and connection, is frequently released during gossiping.
Experts caution that not all rumors are beneficial, though. False or malicious rumors have the power to erode trust, strain relationships, and heighten anxiety. The secret is to keep it constructive or upbeat.
Therefore, don’t feel bad the next time you and your friends share a brief idea; it might be a positive way to stimulate your brain. Just keep in mind to be kind and use your gossiping skills.
