Katie Couric's Notebook: Cursing

By: Katie Couric
Topics: Katie Couric's Notebook

There's a saying in the Marine Corps: pain is weakness leaving the body.

Perhaps it takes a strong man or woman to endure physical pain in silence. But a new study says there may be a better way: swearing.

Researchers at Keele University in England asked more than sixty people to submerge their hands in icy water and repeat a favorite curse word. They then stuck the other hand in the water and repeated something more family friendly. When they cussed a blue streak every one of them could endure the cold for longer.

It may have something to do with the fight or flight mechanism in our brains - a rush triggered by the use of those swear words.

So the next time you stub your toe, or burn your finger on a hot pan, provided there are no kids around, maybe it's okay to use those four-letter words.

If you get horrified looks from your friends, tell them a little weakness just left your body.

That's a page from my notebook.

I'm Katie Couric, CBS News.

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by petersemkiw July 15, 2009 8:23 PM EDT: I'm a fearless man but I'm scared to death of you.; Reply to this comment


by petersemkiw July 15, 2009 8:13 PM EDT: I always thought you liked the strong silent type.; Reply to this comment


by joebeth33 July 14, 2009 10:02 PM EDT: Hi Katie,
I am not a nut. I simply would like to state that I am a colorist. I taught color for a while and use Goldwell products( the best ever) and I think you need more demention in your hair. You have gorgeous eyes and a little more demention would make them stand out. Your hair is a little to lite and gold.
You are a great News person and you need a great stylist and colorist. By the way I love your short cut. It is soooooo cute.
Sincerly,
Janine Villanti Leskowitz; Reply to this comment