You’re stressed? Take a deep breath. Go for a run. Take a shower. Read a book. Do some yoga. Just relax. Try meditation. Or… just swear at the top of your lungs!

Swearing has been proven to hold many positive benefits and everyone has wanted to drop an “f-bomb” once.

A common feeling among all ages is feeling overwhelmed. Swearing can help us cope with our struggles, and relieve us of stress. In difficult situations, people perform better when they have permission to swear. Not only does it help with emotional pain, but can also help relieve physical pain. In addition to relieving pain, it helps improve pain tolerance.

Instead of expressing our pain or discomfort physically, it allows us to do it verbally.

Foul language also strengthens a relationship, it builds trust and security. Typically, People only use foul language around people with whom they feel comfortable. 

Swearing is located on the right side of the brain, many believe this is the “creative” part of the brain. It can help produce creativity and generate innovative ideas. In addition, it demonstrates honesty and sincerity, keeping you close to those around you.

Although it has positive benefits, it is definitely not recommended to swear at school. Students are constantly being penalized by teachers and administrators for using profanities.

The guidelines are clearly stated on page 19 of the Upper School Handbook. To attend Hackley, families sign off saying they agree with these guidelines, requiring their children to comply with the rules.

 “Use appropriate language. Do not swear or use vulgar language. Do not use abusive or threatening language that is or could be viewed as adverse statements, conduct, or treatment relating to a person’s race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, or other personal characteristics.”

But inevitably, students have found ways around cursing.

Bella Edwards (25’) understands that it is inappropriate to swear at school and uses substitutes like “Oh fudge!” and “Sugar!”.

Others… not so much.

Lizzie Doherty (25’) was extremely frustrated after missing a post during Field Hockey and slipped out the f-bomb. Coach Budde was taken aback and yelled “Lizzie!”.

The eighth-grade dean, Mr.Hall, took Jack Ledoux (25’) and his friend group into his office after hearing loud profanities. Jack Ledoux, completely unfazed, said, “We proceeded to curse 5 seconds after that.”

Teachers don’t appreciate the foul language.

“C’mon get more creative. There is more important words in the English language than those” -Mr.King

“We can hear everything you guys say in the freshman hallway from the dean’s office!!” warns Mrs.Stanek.

Although, blaming teachers, deans, and staff is unreasonable as they are deputized to warn students and on occasion even punish them for using profanities on campus. It reflects on Hackley as a whole, and visitors plus outsiders could possibly hear. 

Teachers enforce the “no swearing” rule, so it is sensible to watch your language around them. Most of them…

“I encourage them to yell it louder,” jokes 11th-grade dean, Ms.Leffler.