![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 8 to 32 of 42. Go back in thread:
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.
Posted by bob on April 15, 2000, at 23:27:21
In reply to Re: TO DR BOB, posted by Charles Nemeroff on April 15, 2000, at 22:16:21
You know, at the very least, you'll always be able to get their "two cents" out of people now and then.
I imagine that people who don't find anything of value here won't stick around.
Who knows? They may even get offensive. But it, er, "pays" to know your audience ... and I imagine most Babblelanders are much better than the general public at being intrapersionally offensive and at shrugging off the interpersonal offensiveness of others.
Quite frankly, I know no one who can be more injurious to me than myself, and nearly all attempts by others at trying to hurt my feelings get laughed off rather heartily! By the time I stop laughing at the attempts of amateurs, I usually give them some advice on what to say if they *really* wanted to do some damage ... but it never does seem the same to hear the vitriol I fling at myself coming out of the mouths of others -- they just can't get it right. (sigh ... surrounded by rank amateurs ....)
Then again when it comes to payback, Dr. Bob, I'd say that the number of people who have been paid something of value by their participation in this board is inestimable, and the sum of all that wealth incalculable. The currency earned here has nothing to do with the US Mint and, I think most Babblelanders will agree, has some true value to it.
As for **your** compensation -- hey! Whatever happened to altruism?! ;^)
I do think a MacArthur Grant would be appropriate, but until that comes along, maybe you could give us the names and addresses of those who have any decision-making power over your hours, salary, tenure-review, etc. Maybe we could all write to those folks and convince them just how much good running this board (and the rest of your site) does.
One thing I think you should do is to create a Babbleland Bookstore. We've all read all sorts of books on the disorders we deal with ... quite frankly, if I was going to buy Kay Jamison's latest book and I had a choice of where some of the money I spend of the book would go, I would *love* to have some of it redirected into your pocket. I'd even be happy to write a review and let you post it at your discretion, rather than giving my prose to Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.com or Borders.com or whoever else.com.
Now, as for my two cents on registration...I agree with those who say registration is more hassle than ignoring the occasional village idiot. Well, that was a bit unkind of me ... seeing as such posters are probably far more troubled than the average Babblelander and, in spite of their spite, deserve compassion more than anger. Anyway, using registration to deter them ain't worth it.
If it's demographics you want, then there is a better way as well -- one that preserves true anonymity. Create a form to gather demographic information. Do not include a field that would capture someone's handle or their email address. **Do**, however, have the script that processes the form data write a cookie that simply acknowledges that the poster has filled out the form. The Excite-Harris poll does something similar to make sure people don't post multiple responses (from one machine, that is) to a poll question. Then, you could put a link for it on your home page, on Babble's home page, or any other part of your site that you want. You could point out that no identifying information will be gathered and that the sole purpose for writing the cookie is to note that someone has posted data -- not anything that would tie the data to an individual.
This way, you could even ask us to fill out the form ever 3 months or so, to get an idea of how the demographics change rather than simply adding new folks onto the data heap.
Well, anyway, by now I think I owe you a quarter ... 13 cents of which should be returned to me, 10 cents distributed amongst my fellow Babblelanders, and two cents you can keep for yourself.
cheers,
bob
Posted by Cam W. on April 16, 2000, at 0:15:50
In reply to Re: TO DR BOB, posted by Charles Nemeroff on April 15, 2000, at 22:16:21
> 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.* Dr.Nemeroff - First, I'd like to thank you for teaching me the basics of the HPA axis (enough to allow me to dig deeper for a more complete understanding). How about giving some of your vast knowledge on the HPA axis and it's role in some of the affective and neuroendocrine disorders. This could be included in the Tips section. Even a couple of your journal articles (depending on publishing rights, etc.) would be of vast help to many who frequent this site.
I do agree with you that the Tips section needs a far bit of work, but hey, like us, Dr.Bob is probably too busy to research it himself. Guys like you (also Dr.Stan Kutcher, Dr.Herbert Meltzer, Dr.Gary Remington, Dr.Nancy Andreasen, Dr.Stephen Stahl, Dr.J. Calabrese, etc.) could probably reach into your filing cabinets and come up with some pertinent information for this site.
I know that there is no renumeration for this, but I do not think Dr.Bob is being paid to moderate this site as much as he does. You might contribute some of your expertise (eg treatment resistant depression) to the Tips site. Consider it a gesture to help people, like us contributors to Babbleland who are afflicted with a discoupled HPA axis (or other mental malady). After all, if it were not for mental disorders, you might have a job and may be teaching a Fine Arts class at Red Deer College.
I agree with you that there should not be a charge for this site. If there are upkeep costs, perhaps the U of Chicago could help or maybe some philanthropic organization or even the U.S. government. I would not even mind one of those advertisements scrolling across the top of the page (eg 1-900-WHY-LITHIUM).
Thanks for your time and keep up your valuable work. - Sincerely, Cam W.
Posted by Racer on April 16, 2000, at 0:20:34
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
It really wouldn't work in this situation, but it you'd like 'em...
Meanwhile, I'd love to know a few things aobut hte people on this board: diagnosis, duration, medications, etc. Age, gender, etc.
Here's an idea: how about offering us a voluntary statistical survey we could fill out to find out how many of us share pathologies and or histories? For example, I'd love to know how many others here suffered emotional or sexual abuse, how many of htose are depressive and how many have other diagnoses, whether most of us have had multiple episodes of depression or bipolar, etc. It might make me feel better to be able to put my experiences into perspective. Does that make sense?
As for registering, I like the idea, though I'm used to being here. I would probably have been frightened away at first, though, when I needed this place the most.
And to all: if you don't want to use your real email address, get a free one like excite mail or hotmail. Easy as pi...
Posted by bob on April 16, 2000, at 1:22:00
In reply to Re: To Dr. Nemeroff, posted by Cam W. on April 16, 2000, at 0:15:50
> * Dr.Nemeroff ...
C'mon, Cam! That cheap shot would be just too unprofessional for an MD/PhD to toss Dr. Bob's way. 1st -- no email address. Too easy to fake the name. 2nd -- Google puts Charles Nemeroff at UNC ... as in LostBoyinNC. Coincidence? I say LostBoy has just found another pseudo. Whadaya think?
Maybe registration is a GOOD thing afterall. Hmmm.
perplexedly,
bob
Posted by JohnL on April 16, 2000, at 1:53:25
In reply to possible new registration system, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 7:03:46
Dr Bob,
I actually like the registration idea. It wouldn't compromise being anonymous at all in the eyes of every participant. But it could provide you valuable information, as you suggested. And it would also tend to weed out the flakes early, and allow cutting the flakes out later if they cause problems. It would create an image of professionalism and formality. And other than the registration process, the board itself would remain unaffected in any way. I like that.In your shoes, I would definitely want to gather the demographic info you suggested. The poster is still anonymous, so no one would lose any privacy. And I would definitely want a reliable easy method to intervene if a troublemaker showed up. A portion of the troublemakers would probably just surf on into the sunset anyway, not wanting to register.
The sample trial thing before registering is also an excellent idea in my opinion. That will allow a newcomer to jump right in, without being scared away by some registration process. In the event they find the board helpful--which we know they surely would--they would then feel comfortable and willing to register. And still remain anonymous. I personally can't see any negatives or downsides to your suggested registration process.
I do however strongly feel though that any ideas of fees should be dismissed immediately. Unlike a registration process, fees would indeed change the entire personality and purpose of the board. This board as we've known it would cease to exist. Way too drastic. If the idea of fees is to be pursued at all, I think it should only be in a stand-alone newly-created seperate board designed specifically for fee-based purposes. Not to be combined, confused, or integrated with this board.
Every now and then I have to mention this...you've heard me say it before...but I saw someone else comment on it and felt it was time to bring it up again...How about a Part II of the Tips section??? It really is time for a whole new edition. Not an extension or modification of the existing Tips. Leave that as it is. It's a masterpiece--though a little aged--and should remain as it is. But create a whole new one...Part II, Second Edition, Tips2000, whatever. I really like the idea of including in it discussions on European drugs, nootropics, and herbals, as well as updated discussions on many of the same topics discussed in Tips Part I.
Topics for Tips2000 could include all of the topics in Tips Part I, but also of interest would be...(just examples off the top of my head):
European meds (like Amisulpride, Adrafinil, Tianeptine, more on Moclobemide).
Herbals. SJW, gingko, ginsengs, and any others people are finding helpful for psychiatric symptoms.
Nootropics. Hydergine, etc.
Zyprexa. Antidepressant, mood stabilizer, antipsychotic, all in one. I bet there's a lot to say on this one.
Dealing with side effects. Sexual. Insomnia.
Newer strategies such as the quick trial/comparison method pioneered by Dr Jensen. Lots of critics, but lots of credence as well.
Anhedonia. This stubborn core symptom easily deserves an entire discussion on its own.
More on stimulants for depression.
Modafinil for depression.
On and on. There are so many new topics for Tips2000. Actually, I've noticed a lot of things are already showing up with "2001" in their names. Might as well call it Tips2001. Or simply Tips PartII. In any case, I think it's time. I know it's a monsterous workload, but hey, you started it! :0) When people experience a good show, a good product, or a good service, they definitely want more of it...and updated versions of it. People like freshness.Enough rambling on that. How about this...a nice polite request...Dr Bob, could you PLEASE put together a Tips2000, or a Tips Part II? I bet there are thousands of people out there that would use it and appreciate it.
Thanks,
JohnL
Posted by JohnB on April 16, 2000, at 2:15:59
In reply to Re: more thoughts, posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 15:13:31
> OK, let's see where this discussion goes. Thanks again for all your input,
> BobDr. Bob, your site is so valuable to so many people . . . your site has literally saved lives . . . I can't help but notice all the posts from names I haven't seen before on this thread. I think a lot of us are getting a little nervous :). . . .
How about "passing the hat", ie. get a PO Box that we can send contributions to and post it here . . . couldn't that be set up somehow? I'm sure a lot of people would like to help support Psycho-babble, (and wouldn't it be easier to administer than charging fees?)
Just a thought . . .
Posted by Dr. Bob on April 16, 2000, at 7:22:07
In reply to Re: TO DR BOB, posted by Charles Nemeroff on April 15, 2000, at 22:16:21
> 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.
It's true, I ought to.
But don't post under someone else's name. If you really are Charles Nemeroff, please email me. Until then, I'm going to treat this as more disruptive behavior.
Bob
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