Does the Internet Make You Meaner?

Summary

In this video, Myles Bess explores the phenomenon of online disinhibition, where people behave differently on the internet compared to in person. He explains how anonymity, lag time, and lack of non-verbal cues influence online interactions, leading to both negative and positive outcomes. While toxic disinhibition can foster mean behavior, benign disinhibition encourages openness and support. Bess highlights both sides, from harassment and trolling to the empowerment of marginalized groups, and emphasizes the importance of respectful communication online. The video prompts viewers to reflect on how they behave in the digital world and challenges them to be more mindful.

Takeaways

• 😀 Online disinhibition effect explains why people act differently online compared to in person.
• 😀 Anonymity online leads to a sense of freedom and can encourage both negative (trolling) and positive (sharing personal experiences) behaviors.
• 😀 Lag time in online communication can make people more impulsive, but it can also give them time to think before responding.
• 😀 Lack of nonverbal cues online (like body language and facial expressions) reduces self-censorship and can lead to more aggressive or careless interactions.
• 😀 Toxic disinhibition leads to negative behaviors such as online trolling, which makes the internet a hostile place.
• 😀 Benign disinhibition allows people to open up and share personal issues or experiences, which can create supportive online environments.
• 😀 Online anonymity is one of the major factors that encourages people to act differently, as they feel less accountable for their actions.
• 😀 Researchers have found a positive correlation between online communities and the well-being of marginalized groups.
• 😀 The internet's disinhibition effect can help individuals discuss sensitive topics they might otherwise avoid in person, such as health issues or identity questions.
• 😀 40% of adults and 59% of teens have experienced online harassment, showing the negative consequences of internet disinhibition.
• 😀 Personality, life experiences, and platform conditions also influence online behavior, beyond just the disinhibition effect.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The video discusses the concept of online disinhibition, which refers to how people act differently online compared to in person, often due to factors like anonymity, lag time, and lack of non-verbal cues.

What is the 'online disinhibition effect'?

The 'online disinhibition effect' is a psychological phenomenon where people behave more freely online than they would in real life, which can lead to both positive and negative behaviors.

How can anonymity influence online behavior?

Anonymity can make people feel less accountable for their actions, which can lead to more impulsive or mean-spirited behavior online, but it can also encourage people to open up and share personal experiences.

What is the difference between 'toxic disinhibition' and 'benign disinhibition'?

Toxic disinhibition refers to negative behaviors like being mean or hostile online, while benign disinhibition involves positive behaviors, such as sharing personal struggles and receiving support.

What role does lag time play in online communication?

Lag time, the delay between posting something online and receiving a response, can lead to more impulsive actions, as people might post something and leave before facing the consequences, but it can also allow for more thoughtful responses.

How does the lack of non-verbal cues affect online interactions?

Without non-verbal cues like body language or facial expressions, people may be more inclined to say things they wouldn't say in person because they cannot gauge how the other person is reacting to their words.

What impact can online communities have on marginalized groups?

Online communities can provide support and a sense of belonging for marginalized groups, helping individuals share their experiences and connect with others in similar situations, improving their overall well-being.

How does online disinhibition contribute to trolling?

Online disinhibition can make individuals feel emboldened to engage in trolling behaviors, especially in anonymous environments where they are less worried about the real-world consequences of their actions.

What percentage of adults have experienced online harassment, according to the video?

According to the video, 40% of adults have experienced online harassment, and 66% have witnessed it.

What is the purpose of the collaboration with Common Sense Education mentioned in the video?

The collaboration with Common Sense Education is meant to promote their digital citizenship curriculum, which aims to help educators teach students how to navigate the digital world responsibly and safely.