Posted by MidnightBlue on June 11, 2006, at 20:52:40
In reply to Re: Implementation of trigger flags, posted by Dr. Bob on June 11, 2006, at 19:02:22
Dr. Bob,
I understand that problem, but we have to start somewhere don't we! Maybe I'm not expressing myself clearly.
The computer program would look for trigger words like "cutting," "suicide" etc. and then would ask the person who is posting the message IF they think the message they have just written contains a trigger. For example, this message would elicit a response from the computer because it contains the word "suicide."
The computer would then ask me if I thought the message I had written could trigger someone else. After thinking about it, I realize this is not a description of how to commit suicide or a threat to action, but an academic discussion. I mark the box "NO" and the message is posted without a flag.
However, a HIDDEN flag would be triggered to alert a deputy or you that a message had been posted that MIGHT contain a trigger according to the pre-selected word list. No one else on the boards would see a flag if I chose the "no" option. And yes, that leaves a window of time when someone could stumble on a triggering post, but that happens all the time now.
Now let's say I chose the "no" option and in your opinion it is indeed a post that would likely trigger someone. Then you (or a deputy) would manually flag that post. At that time I can think it would be appropriate for you or the deputy to write a note saying that most people would find that kind of post triggering. This would not cause someone to be blocked unless they are blatantly trying to inflame or beat the system.
This may not be a perfect, but I suspect there would be far fewer visible flags then you think, primarily because the writer can choose to override the system and eliminate false hits. Of course, you and the deputies would be able to see all those times the writer has opted out, but it would not be a distraction to the average reader or poster.
Dr. Bob I see this as a learning experience. It is a way to help people see the power behind their words. It helps a person become responsible for what they say. I think this is really what Babble is all about! Helping people respond to each other and seek each other's help in a way that is not harmful to others.
Thanks for allowing me the opportunity to express myself on this subject.
MidnightBlue
poster:MidnightBlue
thread:614568
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20060525/msgs/655700.html