Sex differences in uses and perceptions of profanity

This study examined sex differences in perceptions and uses of profanity. Profanity is considered in terms of the strength it may impart to language and as a tool of group cohesion and nonmember alienation. Implications of these characteristics are explored in terms of observed sex differences on profanity measures. Females reported less profanity usage than males reported, and females further provided more conservative assessments of the appropriateness of profanity usage in various settings. Males more than females reported that profanity provides a demonstration of social power and serves to make the user socially acceptable.