The Pains of Minding Your Language

No previous research has connected swearing to the actual physical experience of pain. A new study does

That muttered curse word that reflexively comes out when you stub your toe could actually make it easier to bear the throbbing pain, a new study suggests. Swearing is a common response to pain, but no previous research has connected it to the actual physical experience of pain.

Since swearing often has an exaggerating effect that can overstate the severity of pain, researchers at Keele University in the UK thought it would lessen a person’s tolerance. As it turned out, the opposite seems to be true.

The researchers enlisted 64 volunteers and had them submerge their hand in a tub of ice water for as long as possible while repeating a swear word of their choice. This was then repeated with the volunteer repeating a more common word. Contrary to expectations, they kept their hands submerged longer while swearing.
The researchers think pain tolerance rises because swearing triggers the body’s natural fight-or-flight response. They suggest swearing may increase aggression, which downplays weakness to appear more macho.

About The Author

arindam