Swearing can increase strength, self-confidence, and risky behaviour

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Swearing is frowned upon in many circumstances but is also used by many people in casual situations and particularly by comedians. So why do we swear if it is taboo?

A team of researchers at Keel University in the UK have just published a series of experiments in which they tried to elucidate the psychological mechanisms of swearing. It should be noted that these effects are in line with previous research. First off, they found that swearing increases physical strength – in this case it was how long participants could perform a chair push up (holding yourself for as long as possible on the arms of a chair). Other research has found that swearing increases pain tolerance which may be related.

Another experiment they conducted was in risky behaviour – in this case this was pumping up a balloon and seeing how far participants would pump with the obvious risk that it would explode. Swearing increases risk by 8%. They also noted that swearing increased self-confidence but also it had a humorous effect (also in line with previous research).

The psychological mechanisms they identify are all related to lowering self-control and “letting go”. So, swearing seems to do many things that are actually beneficial to us – no wonder we swear so much.

Andy Habermacher

Andy is author of leading brains Review, Neuroleadership, and multiple other books. He has been intensively involved in writing and research into neuroleadership and is considered one of Europe’s leading experts. He is also a well-known public speaker speaking on the brain and human behaviour.

Andy is also a masters athlete (middle distance running) and competes regularly at international competitions (and holds a few national records in his age category).

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Reference

Stephens R, Dowber H, Barrie A, Almeida S, Atkins K.
Effect of swearing on strength: Disinhibition as a potential mediator.
Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology, March 2022.
doi:10.1177/17470218221082657 

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