Proceedings of The University of New Berlin: Volume 1

[University of New Berlin]

University of New Berlin

Department of Linguistics

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Topic: The Evolution of Languages and Traditionally Obscene Words
Author: Professor Maria Wagner
Editor: Alfons Reinmann
Reviewed: Carl Friederich Langsdorff

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Introduction

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Over time language has changed to suit the newer generations, what was once deemed unacceptable is now more socially accepted and widely used. Social swearing can have many positive effects on the workplace, such as creating a feeling of solidarity and belonging. Swearing can also provide stress relief and a means for the employers to assess the stress levels of the workplace, as well as a means to be able to relieve problems and situations before violence is introduced.

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Socially swearing in the workplace creates 'solidarity'. Non violent swearing can be seen as showing honest and genuine feelings and emotions, allowing colleagues to see their co-workers in a more human light. As Lauren Weber of the University of New Berlin explains “the phrases, for God’s sake!, hell no!, and damn it! have lost their offensive nature over time, the functions of more obscene words are slowly shifting within society. “ As the employee is likely to swear in day to day life outside of work, the use of 'free language' gives co-workers a sense of belonging in the group, such as that of a sports team's changing room. Cory Scherer, also of The University of New Berlin, found in a study he conducted in 825, found that the freedom of speech and allowing co-workers to bond on the 'unprofessional' level will bring the group closer, which in turn allows the group to work more harmoniously and productively together.

Swearing provides good tension and stress relief, and a good indication for employers the stress levels in the workplace. When there is no or little stress, social swearing can dominate. As stress levels rise, social swearing tends to decrease, while annoyance swearing increases. Further, increases in the stress level cause social swearing to cease, while annoyance swearing continues, up to a point. In situations of unbearably high stress, swearing tends to stop altogether. It has been proven by Cory Scherer in a study he conducted in 825, that swearing in humorous and lighthearted manner can be great for relieving stress. Allowing workers a quick outburst will encourage employees to overcome small problems quickly rather than forcing employees to find alternative means of relieving the problem.

Annoyance swearing replaces "primitive physical aggression." By allowing employees a means to release aggravation and annoyance instantaneously in the form of a verbal expression, employees are less likely to become aggressive and minor problems are unlikely to become large and require intervention. Socially swearing in the workplace is not always a negative thing. It can create a stronger team and team bonding, as well as become a valuable tool for employers in assessing stress levels, and provide stress relief for the employees. The use of swearing is also an ideal tool for releasing anger and aggravation before it develops further into physical aggression. By removing swearing from workplaces, employees may face serious decrease in morale and work motivation. As shown by the points above, social swearing in the workplace should be allowed.

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Department of Linguistics

Professor Maria Wagner

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University of New Berlin

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