The Psychology of Cursing

The article “Curses!” (Nov. 14) made too little reference to the relationship between what we say and what we feel. Swear words and cursing are the strongest verbal expressions of displeasure that we have. When such words are used for annoyances, such as a minor problem with a computer printer or a long traffic light, there is nothing left to use when something really bad happens. It is not surprising to me that, at those times, some people find cursing no longer relieves the frustration and turn to violence.

It is important to teach our children that cursing is not the only verbal means of expressing dissatisfaction. If we are able to do this, then perhaps our world will be a little less violent.

--BARBARA MOTZ

Via e-mail

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There are far worse things to contend with in this world than having to hear naughty words once in a while, which is a primary reason that naughty words exist in the first place.

The cursing canoeist episode is a classic case of skewed values, witnesses placing their warped sense of moral outrage ahead of their concern for another human’s safety. The man who fell from the canoe could have injured himself or drowned, yet he got prosecuted for saying a no-no. I dislike hearing small children shrieking in public places. Should I sue their parents for not taking the kid outside until he shuts up? One thing you have to admit about swear words: They’re short and succinct. Kids can scream for hours if allowed to (and they usually are, the parents offering wan little “there’s nothing I can do about it” smiles), yet for some reason it’s more socially acceptable.

--KEVIN DAWSON

Sunland