My first experience with swear language is one that I distinctly remember. I was approximately 5 years old, and my young self was spending time with some of the older kids. They were watching the movie Bruce Almighty. I noticed, as I walked in, that there was a conspicuously displayed PG-13 rating on its box. Since I was mischievous little rascal, I disregarded this and sat down with my cousins. Within moments of getting comfortable, the character issued a hearty "BACK TO YOU F&@$*@#!" Oops. It took everyone a couple seconds to realize my jaw had dropped.

It was too late, I had learned my first swear word. I could immediately tell it was a "taboo" word based on how everyone reacted to it, and the vitriol in Jim Carrey's voice. I would bring the word back to school with me and tout it (despite warnings by the older kids not to) at playtime.

It was as if I had the latest toy that everyone wanted! Since I considered myself a generous little kid, I decided to share my colorful piece of vocabulary with my friends. There was a rush of excitement and rebelliousness in my voice every time I spoke it. Luckily, I evaded any disciplinary measures because those of us that knew kept it as a closely guarded secret.

Fast forward to 2018, and the word no longer has the oomph it once held for me. After watching hundreds of PG-13 and R movies, I've heard my fair share of curse words. That includes the ever so potent f-bomb. But isn't it interesting how as we grow older some words lose their original vigor?

This can even be seen in modern society. Words like "damn" and "hell" once carried far more power to them. Unlike the f-bomb, I find no need to utilize a euphemism in place of either of them, even though they used to carry a far worse reputation as well. Another example of this is the use of the term "bloody." In the early 20^th century, the term was vile and very offensive. When one looks at the use of the term today, it is commonly used and is in no way censored on television. This is interesting, because it shows us that taboo language is capable of changing overtime.

In addition, the use of swear words has an interesting psychological element as well. Studies from 2009, 2011, and 2013 show that vulgar language may have the psychological effect of reducing stress. For example, if someone drops a hammer on their hand and curses, it is likely that their stress levels will be reduced due to the release of anger through using a swear word.

Despite what you may think, vulgar language is here to stay. It is prominent in every culture, and studies have also shown that the use of foul language has steadily remained the same for many years now. The next time you catch someone cursing, consider bringing up some of these facts!