Why do people spread rumors?

So I was reviewing everything I have written up to this point and i decided to elaborate. One conflict that popped into my head is why DO people start rumors? In my opinion I think there are two reasons. One, is so that they can have something to talk about with other people. For example, you know when someone walks up to you and tries to start a conversation? I mean you respond, but after awhile your just kind of standing there in awkward silence. So you rack your brain to come up with a subject, and quick. The first thing that pops into your head is this rumor one of your friends told you. So before long you find yourself babbling out the whole story and without a second thought you are a contributor to a rumor. The second reason is to make you seem like a better person. If I went up to you and started talking to you about how you totally lied to your parents about where you were going, and actually went to a party, what would you do? Im not saying you would do this but most people would say "Yeah well did you hear what Kaitlyn last weekend?" Then you tell the whole story and BAM your problem suddenly seems rational. Even though these are not the most effective ways to solve a conflict, people find that they build themselves up by putting others down. To solve this common problem in our society I suggest "When in doubt, tell the truth." If someone like the person my second example came up to you and verbally attacked you about what you did this weekend, just simply respond "Yes I did all that, I'm sorry you don't approve, but it is nothing I am proud of either." You will get much better responses from people, because everybody understands that sometimes you just make mistakes. And it doesn't involve sharing someone else's mistakes, because you never know, they might regret their mistakes as well. Also, if your just standing there awkwardly, because you have nothing else to say, just simply tell them that you are drawing a blank and are tired of standing here awkwardly. It will most likely make them laugh, and before you know it you will be chatting it up about the most random things, that also don't involve putting others down. There, now you have the question AND the answer =)

Until next time,

Mw3