tattles

Tattling refers to the act of informing an authority figure or someone in a position of power about the misdeeds, perceived wrongdoings, or secret actions of another person. This behavior is often observed in children in social settings like school or playgrounds, but it can also occur among adults in various environments such as workplaces or families. The primary motivation behind tattling is typically to seek redress or to draw attention to a rule violation.

The act of tattling is often viewed negatively by those being reported and by peers, who may perceive it as a breach of loyalty or an attempt to gain favor. The tattler, conversely, may see their actions as necessary for maintaining fairness or upholding rules. The effectiveness and appropriateness of tattling can depend on the context, the severity of the reported offense, and the relationship between the individuals involved.

In child development, tattling is sometimes seen as a stage in learning social rules and understanding consequences. Adults may intervene to distinguish between genuine tattling, which addresses a safety concern or a significant rule-breaking incident, and more trivial complaints. Discouraging tattling that is solely for personal gain or to cause trouble is a common approach in educational and parenting settings, while encouraging reporting of harmful or dangerous behavior is also emphasized. The term "tattletale" is often used to describe the person who habitually tattles.