If you’ve ever exchanged whispers about your manager by the water cooler, science suggests you might be doing more good than harm. A recent study has found that gossiping about the boss can serve as a surprising bonding activity among colleagues, despite the mix of guilt, shame, and fear it can trigger.
Researchers surveyed 202 office workers across multiple industries over a 10-day period, asking twice daily whether they had gossiped about their boss and how it affected their emotions and behaviour. A follow-up study with 111 additional workers included input from colleagues to observe any noticeable changes after gossip sessions. Across both experiments, results were strikingly consistent.
Participants reported feeling guilty or embarrassed after dishing the dirt, yet they also experienced a heightened sense of connection with co-workers. Professor Rebecca Greenbaum explained, “Even when it goes against our better judgment, we all seem to gossip about our bosses from time to time. It feels wrong, but it also feels really good.”
Dr Julena Bonner, lead author from Utah State University, added that gossip may limit proactive engagement with the boss on certain tasks, but it simultaneously strengthens team cohesion. “That same gossip can make us feel bonded, increasing collaboration that could aid in other important work,” she said.
However, researchers emphasised that this isn’t a licence to gossip indiscriminately. “We aren’t suggesting that gossip is the only or best way for employees to bond,” said Professor Greenbaum. “It’s important to understand how gossip and our emotions play into social survival—sometimes it connects us with people who understand our experiences.”
The study sheds light on the complex role of office gossip: while it may trigger mixed feelings, sharing frustrations about a manager can inadvertently improve team cooperation and workplace relationships.
This comes amid other research into workplace dynamics, including studies identifying traits of “dark” leaders—such as psychopathy, narcissism, Machiavellianism, and sadism—and how these personalities can impact employee well-being and team morale.
In short, gossip might feel naughty, but it can have unexpectedly positive effects on your workday and your connections with colleagues.
