Analysis Of The Online Disinhibition Effect

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If You Have Nothing Nice to Say, Say it in the Comment Section Accountability is a powerful tool. Being held responsible for one’s actions can powerfully effect how individuals make decisions and social accountability relies on how society interoperates behavior. When it comes to the internet, anonymity often dissolves that accountability. The internet provides an abundance of benefits, including access to an overwhelming amount of information, communication and access to educational tools. Also available are numerous social outlets and ways to connect with a seemingly limitless number of people. However, this effortless ability to voice opinions and beliefs is not without repercussions. Many times, content found in the comment section of
In his article, The Online Disinhibition Effect, Dr John Suler reveals an in-depth analysis of this newly trending behavior. Dr. Suler categorizes the online disinhibition effect in two ways. The first way, benign disinhibition, “… can indicate an attempt to better understand and develop oneself, to resolve interpersonal and intrapsychic problems or explore new emotional and experiential dimensions to one’s identity” (Suler). The second way, he labels as toxic disinhibition, which he describes, “…may simply be a blind catharsis, a fruitless repetition compulsion, and an acting out of unsavory needs without any personal growth at all” (Suler). While there are possible positive outcomes resulting from benign disinhibition, much of what is seen online, such as cyberbullying and what has been labeled, ‘trolling’; defined as the act of posting inflammatory, derogatory or provocative messages in public forums (Zhuo), results from toxic
Message boards, discussion groups, and comment sections are often overwhelmed with people who post bullying, lewd, and often extremely offensive comments, in an attempt to upset other commenters and draw attention to themselves (Timpane). They intentionally disrupt what should be considered a forum for respectful communication between like minded individuals. Instead, comment sections are over run with negative posts and heated arguments. Many people attempt defend their opinions and beliefs, only to be demeaned and disrespected through often ignorant and hateful comments. Some websites have deactivated their comment sections due to the individuals who troll the internet and look for ways to ignite controversy by making intentionally rude and crass arguments against

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