Small talk? Sociological implications of gossip

Abstract

This article seeks to reflect on the social implications of gossip, a fundamental problem for a complete understanding of social interactions. Based on a qualitative study that investigated gossip in three social groups, starts a discussion of this social phenomenon, aiming to (dis) construct (pre) concepts, analyze its factors, paradoxes, its dynamics, components and social functions. It becomes crucial to understand the characteristics and implications of gossips given their influence in modeling social relations.