![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 25 of 42. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
> You could try to set up something with cookies that won't let him come back, or require pass words, but that starts to restrict things too.
I have in fact been thinking about making it necessary to "register" before posting (just looking at posts would continue to be unrestricted). But more just to give me a better idea of what kind of people use this site than for security purposes.
I've wondered, for example, about the age, gender, and geographical distribution of the people here. And whether they're taking medication or in therapy. Or are psychiatrists or therapists themselves.
It might also make sense to ask for an email address. Like now, it wouldn't need to be posted, but it might be useful if there were disruptive behavior later.
Of course, this information would be collected in a secure way, and information about individuals would be kept confidential.
Let me know what you think. How you'd feel about such a process, what you yourself might like to know about the group as a whole, etc.
Bob
PS: It's also true that registration could be a first step toward charging for being able to post. If anyone should have any thoughts about that, I'd also be interested...
Posted by noidx2 on April 15, 2000, at 9:08:34
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
> I have in fact been thinking about making it necessary to "register" before posting (just looking at posts would continue to be unrestricted). But more just to give me a better idea of what kind of people use this site than for security purposes.
>
> I've wondered, for example, about the age, gender, and geographical distribution of the people here. And whether they're taking medication or in therapy. Or are psychiatrists or therapists themselves.
>
> It might also make sense to ask for an email address. Like now, it wouldn't need to be posted, but it might be useful if there were disruptive behavior later.
>
> Of course, this information would be collected in a secure way, and information about individuals would be kept confidential.
>
> Let me know what you think. How you'd feel about such a process, what you yourself might like to know about the group as a whole, etc.
>
> Bob
>
> PS: It's also true that registration could be a first step toward charging for being able to post. If anyone should have any thoughts about that, I'd also be interested...-----------------------------------------
I'd really miss you guys.PS Did you know April 15 is national Hostility Day as well as tax day?
Posted by kazoo on April 15, 2000, at 9:38:37
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
> > You could try to set up something with cookies that won't let him come back, or require pass words, but that starts to restrict things too.
>
> I have in fact been thinking about making it necessary to "register" before posting (just looking at posts would continue to be unrestricted). But more just to give me a better idea of what kind of people use this site than for security purposes.
> Let me know what you think. How you'd feel about such a process, what you yourself might like to know about the group as a whole, etc.
>
> Bob
>
> PS: It's also true that registration could be a first step toward charging for being able to post. If anyone should have any thoughts about that, I'd also be interested...^^^^^^^^^^^^^
NG = NO GOOD
Anonymity is a prerequisite for this sort of group, and this sort of discussion.
Personal/demographic information should be given on a voluntary basis only.
Disruptions can be handled in the manner you have in the not-to-distant past.Now ... let's all chant!
Greetings to Dr. Bob
kazoo
Posted by Sherry on April 15, 2000, at 10:29:34
In reply to Re: possible new registration system, posted by kazoo on April 15, 2000, at 9:38:37
I personaly do not feel that any kind of intervention is required by you. In addition, I feel that you have went a step above and beyond by maintaining this board for us to use, and I, for one, really appeciate it. It has been a life saver for me(literally) more than once. I am perfectly capable of ignoring any hostile and juvenile posts; especially if it means having to register in order to partake in the discussions here.
> > > You could try to set up something with cookies that won't let him come back, or require pass words, but that starts to restrict things too.
> >
> > I have in fact been thinking about making it necessary to "register" before posting (just looking at posts would continue to be unrestricted). But more just to give me a better idea of what kind of people use this site than for security purposes.
> > Let me know what you think. How you'd feel about such a process, what you yourself might like to know about the group as a whole, etc.
> >
> > Bob
> >
> > PS: It's also true that registration could be a first step toward charging for being able to post. If anyone should have any thoughts about that, I'd also be interested...
>
> ^^^^^^^^^^^^^
> NG = NO GOOD
> Anonymity is a prerequisite for this sort of group, and this sort of discussion.
> Personal/demographic information should be given on a voluntary basis only.
> Disruptions can be handled in the manner you have in the not-to-distant past.
>
> Now ... let's all chant!
>
> Greetings to Dr. Bob
>
> kazoo
Posted by Cindy W on April 15, 2000, at 10:48:50
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
> > You could try to set up something with cookies that won't let him come back, or require pass words, but that starts to restrict things too.
>
> I have in fact been thinking about making it necessary to "register" before posting (just looking at posts would continue to be unrestricted). But more just to give me a better idea of what kind of people use this site than for security purposes.
>
> I've wondered, for example, about the age, gender, and geographical distribution of the people here. And whether they're taking medication or in therapy. Or are psychiatrists or therapists themselves.
>
> It might also make sense to ask for an email address. Like now, it wouldn't need to be posted, but it might be useful if there were disruptive behavior later.
>
> Of course, this information would be collected in a secure way, and information about individuals would be kept confidential.
>
> Let me know what you think. How you'd feel about such a process, what you yourself might like to know about the group as a whole, etc.
>
> Bob
>
> PS: It's also true that registration could be a first step toward charging for being able to post. If anyone should have any thoughts about that, I'd also be interested...Dr. Bob, I would be happy to supply any information that would help.
Posted by medlib on April 15, 2000, at 11:17:02
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
> > You could try to set up something with cookies that won't let him come back, or require pass words, but that starts to restrict things too.
>
> I have in fact been thinking about making it necessary to "register" before posting (just looking at posts would continue to be unrestricted). But more just to give me a better idea of what kind of people use this site than for security purposes.
>
> I've wondered, for example, about the age, gender, and geographical distribution of the people here. And whether they're taking medication or in therapy. Or are psychiatrists or therapists themselves.
>
> It might also make sense to ask for an email address. Like now, it wouldn't need to be posted, but it might be useful if there were disruptive behavior later.
>
> Of course, this information would be collected in a secure way, and information about individuals would be kept confidential.
>
> Let me know what you think. How you'd feel about such a process, what you yourself might like to know about the group as a whole, etc.
>
> Bob
>
> PS: It's also true that registration could be a first step toward charging for being able to post. If anyone should have any thoughts about that, I'd also be interested...----------------------------
Dr Bob-
You are, naturally, entitled to datamine in return for providing and maintaining Babble, and a group profile might be of some interest. (It might also shake loose some grant money.) Of course, you will change the nature and size of the group significantly should you require registration; but that's a social science given--the act of observation changes what is observed. For example, many of the most vulnerable posters here have said that they felt able to post (after lengthy lurking) ONLY because of the anonymity available.I believe that, with registration, Babble would become something more closely resembling a traditional therapy group, a group with relatively stable membership comprised of relatively stable (psychologically) participants who meet regularly for emotional support. Newcomers, even if willing to register, would be less willing to try to join this more cohesive existing group. I'm not aware of another online therapy group--it might be an interesting evolution.
I originally sought out Babble as an anecdotal information source on psych meds after reading your Tips section. Only after lurking awhile did I become interested in the individuals posting or feel that I might have something to contribute. I remember feeling very tentative about posting and I composed several messages before actually posting one. I don't think that I would have been willing to register when I first posted, although I would do so now.
I believe that charging for posting would kill Babble in short order. People willing to pay to post become, in effect, vanity publishers--a uniquely boring group of people, whom I would not even bother to read, much less join. Also, several of the current posters are so knowledgeable that they could charge for their advice and information; they contribute it free out of a sincere desire to help others. It doesn't seem reasonable to expect people to pay to volunteer.
If financing is a major problem, you might have better luck turning the board into a paid subscription list serv, but, I warn you, collecting for online services inevitably becomes a major staff expense. I think that there's no question that you provide a unique, very valuable service as Babble now exists, and NAMI or other foundations should be willing to help fund it. But, grant applications are the pits, I know.
I will be sad to see Babble change, but change is the nature of living things; I realize it's not only inevitable, rapid change is now the norm.
Thanks much for all you've done.--medlib
P.S. If the purpose of registration is primarily data collection and not increased control, why not just ask Babble posters to fill out a survey (email optional)? You'd probably get pretty close to the same number of survey reponses as people willing to register for the right to post.
Posted by allisonm on April 15, 2000, at 11:19:48
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
It wouldn't bother me to register if it would mean more responsible postings. But if there were a charge, I probably would stop visiting.
Regarding the demographic surveys, I am curious how anyone could know that the information gathered would be true or accurate?
Posted by Abby on April 15, 2000, at 11:21:22
In reply to Re: possible new registration system, posted by Cindy W on April 15, 2000, at 10:48:50
I know that you put a lot of time into this for which I am very grateful, but I really dislike the thought of paying. that's not a rational response, of course. If you charged, though, I think you'd have to have a team of psychiatrists around to answer emergency posts.
As obnoxious as those posts can be, I also have a non-sefish reason. Somebody who is in real trouble and needs help shouldn't be deterred from reaching out for it. Let's say a suicidal person needs to go to the ER, but he/she needs a little support from real people --even through cyberspace---and not just some leaflet. That person should not have to worry about paying.Also, there isn't anything to stop anyone who wanted to from starting a listserv or other e-mail list to keep talking.
Posted by Noa on April 15, 2000, at 12:27:47
In reply to Charging for Psychobabble!, posted by Abby on April 15, 2000, at 11:21:22
Dr. Bob,
I think you have done a good job, as have the members of this board, in keeping this place a civil, supportive, and informative site. Sure, there have been some disturbing disruptions recently, but for the most part, it has been peaceful here.
My thoughts about registration, etc. are along the lines of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." The anonymity here is a plus, and even thought I have corresponded with you by email, and thus, revealed my real identity to you, there is something about being *required* to do so that would not feel right. As for charging, that would have detered me from being here altogether, as I tend not to subscribe to anything that requires credit card info, etc. Besides, there might be people who don't have credit cards or the financial means to pay for participating (perhaps my fellow public library internet users). But, perhaps you are hinting at a funding issue for this site. If so, you could just come out and hit us with an appeal, giving us the straight poop about the costs of running this site.
As I said, if it ain't broke, don't fix it, and I think this place is in great shape. It even seems that participation has been up, posting activity seems increased, judging by how frequently the pages get archived.
Keep up the good work.
Posted by saint james on April 15, 2000, at 12:30:08
In reply to Charging for Psychobabble!, posted by Abby on April 15, 2000, at 11:21:22
Pay so I can give out free support and info ? Never ! List servs are free and ez to start.
james
Posted by boB on April 15, 2000, at 12:50:32
In reply to Charging for Psychobabble!, posted by Abby on April 15, 2000, at 11:21:22
Dear Doc Bob,
I have had some experience with board control from the other side of the fence. I caused one guy, Neil Slade, to shut down his board. I was not abusive, at least not in terms I consider inappropriate. When he called me a reptile, I willingly referred to myself as a reptile, which he considers equivilant to admitting to being satan. This guy is stuck with his system of belief and cannot handle challenges.
I got on him when he was on Art Bells' Coast to Coast show claiming to cause changes in the weather by using their minds. I was not entirely skeptical of their claims, but there was no way I was going to tolerate absolute belief in their claims. Neil resorted to the most adolescent tactics, rather shouting in large letters on his board, posting replys then pulling them off, and finally, just dumping the whole board. He now has it back up as a "Secret" board, and I don't mess with him, though some of my friends still reply in language we have learned will not set him off to badly. Neil aslo used his server control to delete unwanted messages, but that can really leave some confusing unraveling threads.
As for Art Bell, he says he will retire in a couple of weeks. I mention Bell here because he might have set the standard for controlled discussion. He requires a home phone number (which he does not disclose to users) as a way of requiring people to identify themselves in his on-line discussion. Anything less allows people to easily set up a web-based e-mail account and go on line as whoever they want to be. That is really what I am doing here. I used this alias when I crossed swords with Slade and Bell and it was convienient to use it here rather than set up a new one. I've already written honestly and frankly on your board about the reasons I post annonymously, and you haven't complained, so I figure we must be pals.
The point I am trying to drag out here is that registration or other control methods work by regulating the efficiency of board use. Flamers are often to lazy to make the effort to register, especially if it involves waiting for an e-mail confirmation and then replying with a pass-code delivered via e-mail. But I guess the theory is that many of the people you are interested in helping are also somewhat lacking in attention span, so such an tactic might impinge on their use as well. Anyway, that is how most states regulate hunting and fishing - they regulate the efficiency of methods used to hunt and fish.
I have not perused your archives, but I wonder if this reckless style of posting has been an ongoing thing, or if it correlates to my introduction of a different style of critical dialogue. I do seem to have a talent for creating a stir without drawing too much attention to myself. I just wonder if that is at play here (or maybe if you consider this a dillusion of granduer)
Oh, and I wanted to compliment the design of your board. I don't always edit every misspelled word, but the popups and edit capacity are great!
Posted by Mark H. on April 15, 2000, at 13:24:58
In reply to Charging for Psychobabble!, posted by Abby on April 15, 2000, at 11:21:22
Dr. Bob, In my opinion, a fee system would be a huge mistake. One of the more interesting bits of information the international non-profit organization I work for is discovering is that world-wide the poor list access to information and ability to express their opinions to others on the internet right up there with clean water, food, shelter, medicine and education. We didn't expect to find that, but we're already beginning to form consortia to address it.
If the web becomes another luxury with a system of fees for use, government taxes, etc., its powerful potential to bring about revolutionary changes in what we know (and therefore what we do) will be lost to a great degree.
As for registration, I fear the same filtering will occur, only at a more subtle level. What questions we ask and how we ask them invariably affect the answers. For instance, a severely depressed, unemployed person faced with a questionnaire about level of education, profession, economic status, etc., "hears" that those criteria are the ones by which s/he should judge his/her own situation and condition. It's entirely the wrong message to send.
I know you just well enough now to know that you put this out for discussion very early in the process, and that you're truly open to hearing a variety of opinions. If my response seems emphatic, it's because I'm dealing with open society and open media issues in my daily life. I don't mean to imply criticism of your asking.
Thank you for providing the opportunity to offer this feedback.
Best wishes,
Mark H.
Posted by Cam W. on April 15, 2000, at 13:57:48
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
Dr.Bob - Perhaps a password and e-mail address before posting (neither of which have to appear in the post) could be used. We could all pre-register our passwords beforehand, similar to the way sites like Medscape or Biomednet do. This information could be held by you (in confidence, under fear of torture).About asking personal information; it would not bother me and may help in your research. The only concern I have is that registering personal information on-line makes many people uneasy. This may keep someone who really needs to find some answers from posting. Making this information optional may be a way, but for security reasons, a minimum of information may need to be required.
Hell, I'd like to know what lurking professionals (medical or legal) are using our information to make themselves money without having to do the legwork themselves.
Sincerely - Cam W.
(Dr.B. - I've said it before, you are a remarkable man. To be doing this sans advertisements and on your own time is commendable; I salute you!)
(Yeah, yeah - you do get some cool therapies to consider for your practice, but this is the least we can do for you). - Cam
Posted by Shar on April 15, 2000, at 14:06:18
In reply to Re: Charging for Psychobabble!, posted by Mark H. on April 15, 2000, at 13:24:58
Dr. Bob, Interesting timing for this topic. I first signed on to Psychobabble yesterday. I can tell you for sure, I would not have gone through a lengthy registration process, requiring a user name and (another) password to deal with, nor would I have given out my e-mail address. I definitely would not have paid in order to post, or to just read.
When I got to this site and all that was required was my user name--I was very pleasantly surprised! I would hate to lose access to Babble, and people need this site. Shar
> Dr. Bob, In my opinion, a fee system would be a huge mistake. One of the more interesting bits of information the international non-profit organization I work for is discovering is that world-wide the poor list access to information and ability to express their opinions to others on the internet right up there with clean water, food, shelter, medicine and education. We didn't expect to find that, but we're already beginning to form consortia to address it.
>
> If the web becomes another luxury with a system of fees for use, government taxes, etc., its powerful potential to bring about revolutionary changes in what we know (and therefore what we do) will be lost to a great degree.
>
> As for registration, I fear the same filtering will occur, only at a more subtle level. What questions we ask and how we ask them invariably affect the answers. For instance, a severely depressed, unemployed person faced with a questionnaire about level of education, profession, economic status, etc., "hears" that those criteria are the ones by which s/he should judge his/her own situation and condition. It's entirely the wrong message to send.
>
> I know you just well enough now to know that you put this out for discussion very early in the process, and that you're truly open to hearing a variety of opinions. If my response seems emphatic, it's because I'm dealing with open society and open media issues in my daily life. I don't mean to imply criticism of your asking.
>
> Thank you for providing the opportunity to offer this feedback.
>
> Best wishes,
>
> Mark H.
Posted by Brandon on April 15, 2000, at 14:13:49
In reply to Re: possible new registration system, posted by allisonm on April 15, 2000, at 11:19:48
I personnaly enjoy this board the way it is. Regulating this board or even charging for that matter would seem like a mistake to me. Many people (myself included) tend to shy away from bulletins that require registration. Especially with the amazing group of people this board attracts. Requiring registration seems like a good idea at first but I fear where it could lead to. Just my thoughts on the idea.
Brandon
Posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 15:13:31
In reply to Re: possible new registration system, posted by Brandon on April 15, 2000, at 14:13:49
Hi, everyone,
Thanks for all the feedback. Maybe registration isn't the way to go. :-) But let me try to respond a little.
> NG = NO GOOD
> Anonymity is a prerequisite for this sort of group, and this sort of discussion.
> Personal/demographic information should be given on a voluntary basis only.I was thinking just plain registration would be based on the "handle" used here and therefore wouldn't need to compromise anyone's anonymity. And it could be on a purely voluntary basis that other information would be given.
Even anonymous registration would make it easier to deal with unsupportive posters. But yes, it would mean another password to deal with.
--------
> Regarding the demographic surveys, I am curious how anyone could know that the information gathered would be true or accurate?
Well, there wouldn't be any simple way to guarantee the accuracy of the information. But inaccurate information makes its way into the census, too, and the census is still useful. And if the information is voluntarily given, there's less incentive to misrepresent oneself.
--------
> Somebody who is in real trouble and needs help shouldn't be deterred from reaching out for it. Let's say a suicidal person needs to go to the ER, but he/she needs a little support from real people --even through cyberspace---and not just some leaflet. That person should not have to worry about paying.
> there might be people who don't have credit cards or the financial means to pay for participating (perhaps my fellow public library internet users).
> world-wide the poor list access to information and ability to express their opinions to others on the internet right up there with clean water, food, shelter, medicine and education.
I agree. Maybe one way to address this would be to give everyone a certain number of "free" posts. Like a trial subscription. So they could express their opinions and ask some questions and get some support.
--------
> several of the current posters are so knowledgeable that they could charge for their advice and information; they contribute it free out of a sincere desire to help others. It doesn't seem reasonable to expect people to pay to volunteer.
> Pay so I can give out free support and info ? Never !
I know, it sounds crazy. And this board wouldn't be what it is without a core of active, knowledgeable, and caring posters.
I was thinking that people could not be charged if they posted a certain amount. Or that they could even *receive* something. To compensate them for their contributions. Then I thought:
What if *everyone* received something? I kind of like that idea...
--------
OK, let's see where this discussion goes. Thanks again for all your input,
Bob
Posted by kiwi on April 15, 2000, at 15:55:26
In reply to Re: registration, etc., posted by Noa on April 15, 2000, at 12:27:47
Dear Dr. Bob,
Please don't require registration or personal
information.I don't think you have commercial motives, but
there are enough sites out there (eg., Egroups,
Dejanews, Yahoo, etc) that are trying to make
money by registering users.Requiring registration could alienate a number
of potential users of this site.Kiwi
PS: Keep up the good work. This is a great
and OPEN resource!
Posted by CarolAnn on April 15, 2000, at 16:19:22
In reply to Re: more thoughts, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 15:13:31
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?
It seems to me that the simplest way to discourage negative posters, is for no one(at all!) to respond to them in any way. Maybe there could even be a note, just above the "preview" of the post, that states (for newcomers) that negative, disrespectful, posts are not tolerated and will not be replied to.
Just an idea. CarolAnn
Posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 17:01:02
In reply to Re: blocking posts and group dynamics study?, posted by CarolAnn on April 15, 2000, at 16:19:22
> 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! :-)
Bob
Posted by AprilA. on April 15, 2000, at 17:13:38
In reply to Re: more thoughts, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 15:13:31
> > there might be people who don't have credit cards or the financial means to pay for participating (perhaps my fellow public library internet users).
>
> > world-wide the poor list access to information and ability to express their opinions to others on the internet right up there with clean water, food, shelter, medicine and education.
>
> I agree. Maybe one way to address this would be to give everyone a certain number of "free" posts. Like a trial subscription. So they could express their opinions and ask some questions and get some support.
>
> --------
>
> > several of the current posters are so knowledgeable that they could charge for their advice and information; they contribute it free out of a sincere desire to help others. It doesn't seem reasonable to expect people to pay to volunteer.
>
> > Pay so I can give out free support and info ? Never !
>
> I know, it sounds crazy. And this board wouldn't be what it is without a core of active, knowledgeable, and caring posters.
>
> I was thinking that people could not be charged if they posted a certain amount. Or that they could even *receive* something. To compensate them for their contributions. Then I thought:
>
> What if *everyone* received something? A share of what was generated overall, depending on how much they each chipped in? Minus a percentage or something for me? I kind of like that idea...
>
> --------
>
> OK, let's see where this discussion goes. Thanks again for all your input,
>
> Bob
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I thought the best part of being here was that everyone was equally valuable. How would you decide who to pay? (If your paying by the word I will send more detailed and much longer post [AAH])And if we were all equal, I would gently try to find out how much you've been sleeping and if you're off your lithium.
I love this place. I think someone should try to get you a MacArthur genuis grant and then you wouldn't have to change anything. A.
Posted by Cass on April 15, 2000, at 17:14:30
In reply to Re: more thoughts, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 15:13:31
This board is so idyllic because one can easily access information and support from intelligent, compassionate people. I just want the board to stay the same. I think going to too much trouble because of an occasional disruptive poster is not necessary. The vast majority of the posts are still friendly and sincere. I can ignore the hostility.
Posted by JanetR on April 15, 2000, at 18:46:20
In reply to Cyber-paradise: Don't change it., posted by Cass on April 15, 2000, at 17:14:30
> This board is so idyllic because one can easily access information and support from intelligent, compassionate people. I just want the board to stay the same. I think going to too much trouble because of an occasional disruptive poster is not necessary. The vast majority of the posts are still friendly and sincere. I can ignore the hostility.
>
Dear Dr. Bob, I came across this board accidently. I read the posts for a few days and I too was so impressed by the knowledge , intelligence and compassion shown by the contributors that I became hooked. The information I have gathered on the board has enabled me to actively participate in my own treatment.If it weren't for the board I'd either be still receiving inadequate treatment or I would have given up out of sheer frustration. There is no way in which I shall ever be able to express my thanks to those who have helped me. I have become very fond of the members.I feel that everyone who paticipates is genuine. There are no atifices, no pretences. That in itself is remakable.
I never give out my credit card number on the internet so no way would I have paid to join. I think that you are providing a valuable social service .Please don't change. Thank you, Jan
Posted by Renee N on April 15, 2000, at 20:43:15
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
Dr. Bob,
I love this site, because of the freedom to post anonimously. I also appreciate your trying to block the hateful posts. Please don't take away our anonimoty. Thank you for always checking for our opinions before making decisions that affect us. I love Babble Land, my fellow Babblers and our fearless leader!!! Renee N
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.
Posted by Charles Nemeroff on April 15, 2000, at 22:16:21
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
Dr. Bob, if you are going to charge for this website you ought to at least UPDATE the tips and tricks section. It is kind of out of date and old. Perhaps add a section on foreign meds there. Maybe add a section dealing specifically with treatment resistant depression. Honestly, your site is not worth being charged for right now.
If you are going to charge for it you ought to at least improve it a lot. I wouldnt pay squat for your site the way it currently exists...it aint worth it.
Pay site? Get real Dr. Bob your website would lose so much traffic you might as well shut it down.
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