Relationship on the rocks? Try badmouthing your family and friends together. Wicker and Wilde are intrigued by this concept!
A new study at U.C. Riverside in California found gossiping with your significant other can improve your relationship. Couples that gossip together tend to be happier and have better relationships overall.
Couples wore special devices and agreed to have their conversations recorded throughout the day. About 14% of their entire day was taped.
Researchers found we spend an average of 38 minutes a day gossiping, and 29 of those minutes are spent gossiping WITH our significant other. So, they're our biggest partner in crime.
The researchers think gossiping together makes us closer because it's a form of emotional bonding. Or, it reinforces the idea that you're "on the same team."
By the way, it doesn't matter if it's positive or negative gossip: According to the study, "Negatively gossiping with one's romantic partner on the way home from a party could signal that the couple's bond is stronger than with their friends at the party." And positive gossip "could prolong the FUN experiences [you had]."
