Posted by Sara T. on April 15, 2000, at 21:47:00
In reply to Re: blocking posts and group dynamics study?, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 17:01:02
> > Dr. Bob, I see the need for having the ability to block out disturbing and negative posts. But, I can't help wondering, if you do that, won't it skew the results of the group dynamics studies you were considering?
>
> I guess so. That would be a limitation of using this site. But it wouldn't mean studies couldn't be done. Depending on what exactly they were looking at. If someone wanted to study negative posting, maybe they would have to go somewhere else! :-)
>
> BobI frequently post on a message board that is for support of families and individuals with Asperger's syndrome called OASIS. The message board and chats are on Delphi. You have to register to enter but there is no fee and no one is limited to the amount or number of posts they can make. there are folders for different sections of interest, such as schools, medications, general discussion, etc.
Recently the person who maintains the board removed a person because she felt the person was looking for information to use in a book or article and she felt that it was important to maintain the integrity of the posters privacy. It was uninamously supported that if anyone wanted to use any of the posts for publication or other research, that permission had to be granted from the users of the board. Many of the posters do use their real names and there is even a section for introductions so that everyone can see where the other posters are from. No personal addresses or other information is exchanged unless the posters wish to do so.
But there as well as here, alot of painful and very personal information is posted. Many times from parents whose children are being hospitalized or in some suicidal crisis. So, the need for support in a place where others understand your trials is crucial to the successful functioning of OASIS. I think the registration process allows the moderator to be able to block those who would be offensive and it doesn't necessarily mean any charges. On the other hand, I don't see very many offensive posts on here.
Just my thoughts.
SaraT.
poster:Sara T.
thread:30069
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/30174.html