The Psychological Dynamics of Message Boards

[Cal]

Originally Posted by SpeakersCorner

I must say, Igzy, you have written an illuminating treatise on board addiction and board behavior. I fear I've got the disease and I don't like it.

Anyway, this was one of the more insightful posts I've read.


SC

SC,

I've found being aware of the dynamic helps deal with it. My one rule of thumb is Don't Take Things Personally, which I've been able to do here, except, er, um... ahem... when it comes to some of your posts. Sorry.

It's the sensitive feelings getting provoked that initiates the down cycles, and some people just can't seem to deal with them, or don't realize what's happening. They are simply thinking "I've been misunderstood!" or "that so-and-so isn't going to get away with that!" And they proceed as a mob to run the board into the ground.

Basically, one has to be able to "Just Say No." No viewing, no posting until one honesty can control it. I think one reason people check out is they are trying to deal with the compulsion. Not a bad thing to do if you can't control it.