We asked UNC students: Is gossiping good for you?

Like it or not, most people gossip. Sometimes, we just need to release pent-up frustration or emotions. Otherwise, our heads might actually explode — and now it's scientifically proven. Scientists from the University of Pavia have discovered that gossiping releases a significant amount of oxytocin, the pleasure hormone. Staff writer Krupa Kaneria asked UNC students what they thought about gossiping.

Zoe Dohm

Sophomore human development and family studies major from Apex

"I do try to stay away from gossip because I think what’s usually being discussed is things that you don’t have the whole picture on. On the other side, I do believe it’s healthy to talk about your feelings, but usually gossip is other people’s business, and I think it can create more drama and hard feelings if the people on the other side of the gossip know what was said."

David Bussell

First-year undecided major from Charlotte

"I think it is wrong. I think it stems from being dissatisfied about yourself in a lot of ways, and I don’t admire it when I see it in other people. I stay away from it."

Karissa Barrera

Senior global studies major from St. Petersburg, Florida

"I think it depends on the sort of gossip. It’s healthy to discuss events in other people’s lives, but not if you are comparing them to events in your life. Passing judgment all the time is too much negativity."

Jackie Warren

First-year chemistry major from Statesville

"I personally think gossip in terms of healthy conversation — not with harshly negative overtones or criticizing statements — is healthy, but when it reaches the point of negative thoughts or actions, that’s when it’s harmful."

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Sarah Battle

Sophomore exercise and sports science major from Charlotte

"I think it’s natural. Everyone likes to do it, whether they admit it or not — but to degrade someone or be cruel to them is not healthy. Getting out your feelings is healthy because you release all of those emotions."

Audrey Burke

First-year business administration major from Charlotte

"I definitely think gossip is a feel-good activity, but it’s also very hurtful, and it can definitely backstab people that you’re talking about."

Victoria Bliss

Sophomore biomedical engineering major from Charlotte

"I can see why it would be healthy because communication overall is healthy. But I think it could be harmful in that it might be healthy for you, but hurtful to others."

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