Always minus someone: WhatsApp’s side-chat/gossip

In the world of WhatsApp, there exists an unofficial group that mirrors the main official groups, but with a twist. These groups exclude one or more individuals, and they serve as a platform for gossip and discussions about the absent members. The concept might not be new, but the structure provided by WhatsApp has amplified its presence.

Gossip, in its most basic form, has been a part of human interaction for as long as we can remember. It began as a means of nurturing alliances between primates, with grooming sessions providing a personal touch. As humans evolved, so did our communication, and gossip transformed into a more efficient way of sharing information, often focusing on social interactions and relationships.

Robin Dunbar's theory suggests that language evolved as a more efficient form of grooming, allowing us to maintain multiple relationships simultaneously. Gossip, in this context, might have been a key factor in the development of language, as it enabled us to discuss social dynamics and relationships more effectively.

The WhatsApp group minus one works on the same principle. It allows people to discuss the person not present in the main group, serving as a space for sharing judgments and real conversations. This unofficial supplement of friendship provides a platform for shared irritation, which is often cheaper than sharing vulnerability. People can create smaller rooms where they feel more included and have a sense of control over the conversation.

The power of this WhatsApp phenomenon lies in its ability to bring people together, even if they are excluded from the main group. It highlights the importance of the unofficial discussions that often take place outside the public eye, shaping our relationships and perceptions of belonging. In the end, there is almost certainly a WhatsApp group that doesn't include you, and this phenomenon serves as a reminder of the hidden conversations that shape our social lives.