How using of bad language fosters violence and unempathetic behaviour in youngsters

There are multiple facets of society that influence our ideology and worldview, or, as the Germans would call it, our ‘weltanschauung’. In an ideal world, as young children, we are under the scrutiny of our guardians, who meticulously ensure a mentally and physically secure environment for us. However, as adolescence dawns, we are exposed to numerous social and cultural norms that shape our outlook unconsciously. These include prejudices, stereotypes, or mannerisms that, even if we personally disagree with them, can condition our brains to align our beliefs with them through recurrent exposure. One such issue is the internalisation of profanity or swearing in young minds.

We tend to encounter abusive language from a very young age, whether actively or passively—meaning we either participate in profane communications firsthand or integrate swear words into our lives due to what we hear in conversations around us. These sources can range from peers and strangers in parks to our own parents. Gradually, as swearing becomes part of our daily lives, it tends to be incorporated into our vocabulary. Given the casual approach many people take towards profanity, it can eventually be viewed as a normal or even “appealing” trait, particularly among the younger generation, which is veritably more vulnerable to emotional and intellectual reforms.

Profanity arises from various triggers in different groups and systematically affects them in distinct ways. Studies and cultural assessments suggest that men use profanity more frequently and associate it with aggression and dominance, while women might use it to express frustration or solidarity within peer groups. Additionally, research from Cambridge University indicates that exposure to profanity, especially among male youth, correlates with higher levels of aggression and potentially abusive behavior. This effect is more pronounced in environments where aggressive language is normalised, reinforcing harmful gender norms. Profanity usage often spikes in stressful or competitive environments, such as workplaces and educational settings, with younger generations adopting more casual language norms influenced by global media. This can lead to physical aggression in young boys and relational aggression (e.g., exclusion) in young girls.

Constant exposure to abusive language can desensitise us and blur the line between humor and disrespect. In India, where abuses and slurs against women are widespread, this leads to the internalisation of an inferior, unscrupulous, and vulgar attitude towards women. This behavior eventually gives rise to abusive and violent crimes committed by youth, especially against the female population. Over time, profanity can erode our ability to empathise with those we casually swear at or about, and the further normalisation of violence initiated by profanity has the potential to incite gruesome acts of terror due to dehumanisation and lack of empathy.

Change is never easy, but it must start at the individual level. Accountability is crucial in addressing harmful behaviors. Begin with yourself—make a conscious effort to avoid excessive use of abusive language. When you witness friends or family speaking in demeaning or harmful ways, encourage them to stop. Hold both yourself and those around you accountable for the words they choose and the aggression that can stem from them. While it may feel challenging at first, with persistence and commitment, we can all contribute to creating a more peaceful, respectful, and safe society.