Many believe that swearing is a replacement for crying. As we get older we substitute crying for swearing, others use both as kids draw attention to themselves. Researchers believe that swearing is a perfect way to release stress and pain. Here are the main reasons kids and adults swear.

• Establish a group identity

• Establish membership in a group and maintain the group’s boundaries

• Express solidarity with other people

• Express trust and intimacy (mostly when women swear in the presence of other women)

• Add humor, emphasis or “shock value”

• Attempt to camouflage a person’s fear or insecurity