Swearing your way to the truth

This study looks at the relationship between profanity and honesty...

By

Swearing your way to the truth

Itโ€™s true, I swear! 

A study has found that the more we swear, the more trustworthy we might be. Researchers studied peopleโ€™s behaviour in everyday situations and when using social media, and revealed a link between swearing and honesty.

It seems that, when we curse, itโ€™s an expression of genuine emotion and openness โ€“ a sign that we care and are invested in the discussion. When swearing, weโ€™re less likely to filter our views and more likely to give our honest opinion.

So, the habit of dropping the ‘f bomb’ or a smorgasbord of other profanities a little too much could actually nod towards the positive trait of being truthful…

Are you a ‘potty mouth’? Do you think you are more truthful than most? Tell us your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

Photograph: iStock