A recent study reported by the BBC says that swearing reduces stress and can build team spirit. In fact, it says that attempts to stop team members from swearing can increase stress.
Obviously, swearing in front of customers isn’t a good idea, nor is swearing at fellow employees. For managers, “The challenge is to master the art of knowing when to turn a blind eye to communication that does not meet with their own standards.”
I know that when I hit my finger with the hammer, out comes a few choice words, automatically. And although it doesn’t stop the pain, somehow it does let some pressure off in some strange way.
It all makes sense now.
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With regards to the study, I’m not sure if it’s the act of swearing, or instead, if it’s the ability to have a way to vent frustration and find solutions, which builds team spirit.
Many years ago, I worked in a room with 3 guys, one of whom swore incessantly. My mom then pointed out to me that I had started swearing more frequently and that it made me look unprofessional. Indeed, I had picked up a bad habit from my colleague without being aware of doing so. In that case it did not build team spirit.
Where I work now, we hardly swear; although I often say, “What were they thinking?!”. Our team is noted for solving problems. When frustration builds, we seek out another colleague to bounce ideas, or we have a team meeting with our manager. We vent in disbelief for maybe 5 minutes, then we get down to business to find solutions to the problems at hand. We always come up with solutions… I work with a great team.
You’re right. It is venting. And now that I am aware of it, I have been able to think before I speak.