I would have to confirm the notion (IMO experience) about negative gossip when a person is not pulling their weight. Like the rowing team social experiment, we (my social circle) can get pretty cruel when someone is breaking the informal and silent social rules that we have in place.
I have also been on the recieving end of the stick, and it is a clear signal (when you think that people are talking behind your back) to analyze your situation and be ready to change.
I would disagree with Gilda however,
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So I'm thinking as I read this, criticize the guy for not pulling his weight on the team. Calling him names and being cruel about something that has nothing to do with his ability to row a boat is uncalled for.
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And I think the overall point of the article is exactly the opposite. The gossip IS CALLED FOR, and a necessary part of our social interactions. He is not performing as a team member, and the gossip is a signal to those privy that such behaviour will not be tolerated, at least informally.
In the Army, we gossip like a fucking knitting bee. It is incredible how much time is dedicated to gossip. Looking at the conformity, strict rules and unwritten codes that we have in place, I think it makes more sense now. When we gossip, we keep everyone in line, and informed of the unwritten rules.
I would also like to put in my 2 cents about cross-gender gossip: It is NOT ACCEPTABLE for a male to gossip about a female in my social circle. The fear of sexual harrassment charges or discrimination is far too great. We (meaning the people I gossip to and vice versa) do not spread, start or listen to gossip about females. I wonder if this common amongst other groups?
BTW, have you guys heard about Halx? I hear he is hung like a Shetland Pony...