Swearing may unlock hidden strength, study finds

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Source: ScienceDaily Health

Original: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251222080123.htm...

Published: Tue, 30 Dec 2025 19:57:02 EST

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that swearing during physical challenges allows people to assert themselves more and endure longer[original content]. Repetition of swearing significantly increased grip strength by an average of 1.4 kilograms compared to a neutral word[2][3]. Swearing activated motivational systems in the brain and increased scores on the BAS Drive Scale, enhancing the desire to pursue goals[1][2][3]. Participants reported higher levels of positive emotions, greater humor, and better distractibility[1][2][3]. This effect is related to state disinhibition, which reduces inhibitions, increases emotional arousal, and releases energy for the task[1][2]. The study supports temporary enhancement of physical performance and changes in emotional and motivational states[1][2][3]. However, it has not been confirmed to reduce the brain's response to errors (ERN signal)[1][2][3].