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In class this week, we learned that Reddit is not only a powerful collaborative community, but one with the power to help those having
suicidal thoughts or tendencies feel more connected to others in similar circumstances. Since Reddit is an online community, most of its members can remain anonymous to each other, and thus can feel more inclined to share feelings that would otherwise go unexpressed in real life. This advantage also comes with some disadvantages, one being that anonymity can bring in people with less than harmless intent. Trolls are those who have fun at the expense of others, and in a case where people are legitimately trying to get help for serious problems, trolls can be the last nail in the coffin. Luckily Reddit is not a complete anarchy, and usually has multiple active moderators per subreddit. Overall, turning to Reddit for help is definitely a positive, especially for those who have become ingrained in its community and feel no one else would be able to relate to them as well.
I agree with you that Reddit is a positive step for suicide prevention and awareness. Most of Reddit’s uses are males, which is a demographic that is more likely to commit suicide. Many other online forums are also very feminine, with graphics such as flowers and butterflies, but Reddit serves at a platform that males can connect with easier. I also like that you brought up the fact that this sub Reddit page is monitored. Internet “trolls” will always be on the page, but since the page is monitored, those comments can then be deleted.
ReplyDeleteGreat blog post Alex! I found it to be ver interesting. I really enjoyed how you looked at both the positives and negatives that follow from people who turn to the Reddit community in times of hardship or suicidal thoughts. I also feel that the positives of the site override the negatives, I too think the anonymity of the site really creates a safe place where users can feel comfortable.
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