Question of the Week: Tween Gossip

Let me set the scene. You and a couple of your pre-teen girlfriends are at the movies, or at school, or anywhere together. Your one friend says, "Did you see what Gabby's wearing? It looks like something my grandmother would wear! She's so annoying."

A RED FLAG SHOULD BE RAISED IMMEDIATLEY

The other friend chimes in. "I know, she thinks she's so cool." Don't take the bait! Gossip is human nature, but it's a slippery slope. If you're confiding in a family member, or a lifelong BFF, it's understandable, but if you find yourself or your friends continually gossiping about people, you've fallen down the rabbit hole.

Think about who you're gossiping about. Now imagine them hearing what you're saying and how they might react. Also think about one of your friends telling them what was said and who said it. That's gossip, too. When your friends are gossiping about people, what do you do? This is tough for any age, but I will tell you, this is where your character is ultimately tested.

When someone mentions your name, what words do you want to follow?

If the person they're talking about annoys you as well, you can nod your head and listen without adding to the conversation or you can excuse yourself altogether. If it's a friend of yours the other girls are talking about, you could say something like, "She's a friend of mine. I've never seen her do that, or I think she's really nice." Remember, the person in your friend group who gossips most often may eventually point the arrow toward you. Try to choose your friends wisely. If you don't feel happy, relaxed, and comfortable around certain people, there's a reason. Stay on your own path and be kind. It will pay off in ways you can't imagine.

Question of the Week: Have you ever gossiped and immediately regretted it?

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