Hot Goss, Healthy Brain.
The real office tea? Gossiping might actually be good for you. According to evolutionary psychologists, gossip evolved as a survival tool. In early human tribes, knowing who could (and couldn’t) be trusted helped keep the peace—and kept you safe. Very preliminary, but fast-forward to today, and casual chitchat still plays a very important role in bonding, boosting empathy, and building community.
When you share stories (yes, even juicy ones), your brain releases oxytocin—the feel-good hormone that deepens social connection. Research also shows gossip can reinforce social norms and even protect people from bad behavior by holding others accountable. The key? It’s all about how you do it. Uplifting, empathetic, or cautionary gossip can build trust. Mean-spirited talk? Not so much.
Try this today: Catch yourself mid-gossip and ask: “Is this kind, helpful, or true?” If yes, it might just be a modern-day survival skill. If not, pivot the convo to something more meaningful. Your brain—and your relationships—will thank you.
