Psychology of crying

Moncrieff · Mar 16, 2026 · 15m

Crying is something every human being does, yet many of us still feel embarrassed or apologetic when it happens. From childhood, people are often taught to see tears as a sign of weakness or losing control. But psychologically, crying is a natural and healthy human response.

We see it even on the biggest stages in the world actors and actresses last night were standing on stage at the Oscars, overwhelmed with emotion and crying as they accepted an award.

So why do we cry, what purpose do tears serve, and why do we still carry so much shame around them? Dr Marie Murray, Psychologist & Adjunct…