Axis Conversations Ask Axis: How can we explain to our 2 girls the difference between venting and gossip?
Nov 25, 2025
Dr. Mark Mayfield, a former pastor and certified master Christian coach, tackles the intricate line between venting and gossip. He emphasizes the importance of knowing if a story is yours to share, and how to vent healthily without undermining others. Mark discusses the role parents play as models in speech habits and how children can redirect gossip. He warns about the addictive nature of gossip and advocates for uplifting conversations, encouraging families to ask how they can support each other rather than shame.
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Check Permission Before Sharing
- Ask, "Is it your information to tell?" before sharing a friend's story.
- If not, get permission or focus on how the event impacted you instead.
Venting Versus Gossip
- Venting centers on your feelings and experience of an event, not on attacking the absent person.
- Gossip describes someone who can't defend themselves and focuses on making them look bad.
Venting With Boundaries
- When venting, avoid naming details that expose someone who can't respond; instead describe why it affected you.
- Say you won't repeat specifics but share what you learned or felt.