Experts share why a little gossip might actually be good for your well-being
- Replies 0
Whether it’s chatting with a neighbor over coffee or exchanging updates with a close friend, talking about others—yes, even when they’re not around—has long been part of how we connect.
Though gossip often gets a bad rap, experts say there may be more to it than idle chatter.
In fact, research suggests that when done thoughtfully, sharing social information could actually benefit our emotional and social health.
According to a YouGov study, around 70% of Americans say they’ve gossiped about relatives, with friends and bosses not far behind.
But instead of labeling it as purely negative, some experts say it’s better understood as a form of social bonding.
Dr. Charles Sweet, a board-certified psychiatrist and medical advisor at Linear Health, told Newsweek that gossip has “complex psychological roots” and can serve an important role in how people relate to one another.
It’s not always about spreading rumors—sometimes, it’s about feeling connected, sharing concerns, and learning more about our social world.
Gossip can also act as a form of social protection.
Alexandra Hoerr, a licensed clinical therapist and founder of Optimum Joy Clinical Counseling, says that in many situations—especially when it comes to dating or personal safety—gossip helps people stay informed and cautious.
She notes that one of the “biggest benefits” is the way it strengthens social ties.
“The more social support you have and the more connected you are to the community around you, the better off you are,” Hoerr explains.
Researchers from the University of Maryland and Stanford University have also highlighted gossip’s role in shaping social dynamics.
By circulating information about someone’s behavior or reputation, gossip can guide others toward trustworthy, cooperative individuals and away from those who may not have others’ best interests in mind.
Aside from its social benefits, gossip can also be a form of stress relief.
Hoerr explains that being able to talk about something that’s bothering you—even indirectly—can ease emotional tension.
Nicole Sylvia, a psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience, adds that gossip can offer what’s called a “secondary gain”—meaning it helps someone process their own feelings by observing and discussing others’ experiences.
It’s also a mirror for our values.
Dr. Sweet says gossip can help people reflect on what they want to avoid, calling it a way to “subconsciously reinforce what not to do.”
By observing someone else’s choices, we may evaluate our own in a clearer light.
Gossip becomes a problem when it’s used to exclude, hurt, or spread false information.
But when it’s done with care, it can be a surprising tool for learning, connecting, and even looking inward.
Read next: Doctors warn: 10 flu hotspots you should avoid—Are you at risk?
What do you think—have you ever felt closer to someone after a little shared gossip? Or used it to make sense of your own feelings? We’d love to hear your stories and reflections in the comments. Let’s talk about the role gossip plays in our lives—and how we can use it to build each other up!
Though gossip often gets a bad rap, experts say there may be more to it than idle chatter.
In fact, research suggests that when done thoughtfully, sharing social information could actually benefit our emotional and social health.
According to a YouGov study, around 70% of Americans say they’ve gossiped about relatives, with friends and bosses not far behind.
But instead of labeling it as purely negative, some experts say it’s better understood as a form of social bonding.
Dr. Charles Sweet, a board-certified psychiatrist and medical advisor at Linear Health, told Newsweek that gossip has “complex psychological roots” and can serve an important role in how people relate to one another.
It’s not always about spreading rumors—sometimes, it’s about feeling connected, sharing concerns, and learning more about our social world.
Experts say casual conversations—even those about others—can help strengthen social bonds and emotional well-being. Image Source: Pexels / Antonius Ferret.
Gossip that protects and informs
Gossip can also act as a form of social protection.
Alexandra Hoerr, a licensed clinical therapist and founder of Optimum Joy Clinical Counseling, says that in many situations—especially when it comes to dating or personal safety—gossip helps people stay informed and cautious.
She notes that one of the “biggest benefits” is the way it strengthens social ties.
Also read: Are your decisions endangering your summer? Psychology expert reveals shocking truth!
A concept called “universality” comes into play here—when we share similar stories and experiences, it reminds us we’re not alone.“The more social support you have and the more connected you are to the community around you, the better off you are,” Hoerr explains.
Researchers from the University of Maryland and Stanford University have also highlighted gossip’s role in shaping social dynamics.
By circulating information about someone’s behavior or reputation, gossip can guide others toward trustworthy, cooperative individuals and away from those who may not have others’ best interests in mind.
Also read: This First Lady's finally addressing the divorce rumors...and more.
It’s not just social—it’s emotional, too
Aside from its social benefits, gossip can also be a form of stress relief.
Hoerr explains that being able to talk about something that’s bothering you—even indirectly—can ease emotional tension.
Nicole Sylvia, a psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience, adds that gossip can offer what’s called a “secondary gain”—meaning it helps someone process their own feelings by observing and discussing others’ experiences.
It’s also a mirror for our values.
Dr. Sweet says gossip can help people reflect on what they want to avoid, calling it a way to “subconsciously reinforce what not to do.”
By observing someone else’s choices, we may evaluate our own in a clearer light.
Gossip becomes a problem when it’s used to exclude, hurt, or spread false information.
But when it’s done with care, it can be a surprising tool for learning, connecting, and even looking inward.
Read next: Doctors warn: 10 flu hotspots you should avoid—Are you at risk?
What do you think—have you ever felt closer to someone after a little shared gossip? Or used it to make sense of your own feelings? We’d love to hear your stories and reflections in the comments. Let’s talk about the role gossip plays in our lives—and how we can use it to build each other up!
