Have you heard about what happened to–? Guess who I just saw with– Did you know that–? Sound familiar? Gossip in school is all too common, usually following the same old cliches and the rapid spreading of who, what, when, where, and why. In a way, it is really an informal form of journalism. Gossip is everywhere in high school–it seems harmless, but it shapes reputations and relationships. Gossip is popular because it satisfies curiosity, creates social bonds, and gives people a sense of control–but it can also be damaging if left unchecked.
So why does gossip happen? Well, in simple terms, it fulfills real social needs. Humans are naturally curious about other people’s lives, that is just a part of who we are. Sharing stories creates connection and helps people feel included. Gossip can serve as a tool to navigate social hierarchies or warn about potential conflicts. Gossip is not always malicious or bad–sometimes it is a form of social glue.
However, it should be done carefully and not done without thought. Even though gossip feels harmless, it can have real consequences. Rumors can damage reputations or friendships. It can also create anxiety, mistrust, or exclusion. Also, in this day and age, social media spreads gossip faster and makes it harder to control. The negative impacts can surely outweigh the social benefits if gossip is not handled responsibly. It is important to think about if the information being spread can hurt the person at all.
In hindsight, gossip is a natural part of high school, but it can be both bonding and harmful. It would be wise and socially beneficial to think before spreading rumors and instead use curiosity in positive ways. Curiosity is human–but kindness makes it worth sharing.
–Brooklin Garrison