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.
Moaning makes you happier — as long as you do it to your mates, scientists claim, above Victor MeldrewBBC
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.