The rumor mill at work: When gossip protects coworkers and when it backfires

Stephanie Joseph was working at a television station in New York at the age of 20 when a false rumor began circulating that claimed she and a married colleague were romantically involved. Joseph, who barely knew the colleague in question, remained unaware of the gossip until a producer informed her.

This incident is highlighted as an example within a broader examination of workplace gossip, specifically exploring the dynamics of how rumors circulate in professional environments and the dual nature of such chatter, which can either protect coworkers or backfire.