Whining can actually make us HAPPIER, study finds – but only in a key setting
MOANING makes you happier — as long as you do it to your mates, scientists claim.
Offloading problems and bitching can bring out negative emotions, research suggests.
But crucially it also forms closer bonds with friends, resulting in greater life satisfaction, according to a study.
Scientists at Southwest University in China analysed 2,600 teenagers, and found the serial moaners were happiest.
“Co-rumination” — discussing personal issues and negative emotions while seeking social support — was beneficial to both sexes, especially females.
Dr Xuemei Li said: “It can be harmful, especially if we dwell excessively on negative feelings.
“However our research highlights the importance of strong friendships, which can mitigate negative emotions.
“Co-rumination was positively correlated with life satisfaction, suggesting the more we do it, the happier we are.”
The study also found men benefit from next-level “obsessive whining”, but the girls did not.
Brits are world-class moaners, typified by sitcom legend Victor Meldrew, right, from One Foot in the Grave.
A poll by Privilege Insurance found we whinge three times a day, mainly about weather, politics, tiredness and work.