Posted by dove on October 19, 2000, at 11:29:30
In reply to Dr.Bob - An idea or two...or three, posted by Greg on October 19, 2000, at 8:22:41
I just want to second Greg's motion. I would be very extremely interested in seeing some data for Psycho-babble that goes further than just raw numbers/counters of visitors/regulars month to month or yearly.
What time of the year (respectively keeping in mind that we have members from all over the globe) do the most board-difficulties arise. Does this correlate to an increase in mental illness or emotional liability. Is there a definite seasonal relationship to mental illness and/or stability deterioration. Do certain seasonal changes aggravate or induce the aggressive and/or regressive behaviors sometimes seen on the board. Are there certain periods of time that display an increase in board member empathy, kind responses, expressive kinship, and other positive (possibly pro-active) behaviors. Are there any differentiating characteristics or personalities observable in the messages depending on the time of the day in which they were written and posted. Does the board reflect the same composition (percentage-wise) as the public's (both nationally and universally).
These items are more than mere curiosity, as I feel that the more we know about the board's mutations and fluctuations the better the board can do its job and fulfill its purpose. If we know that the seasons, or even the time of day effect mental diseases, we can then combat that pro-actively. What I mean by "pro-active" is not increased censorship or over-sensitivity, but a conscious effort to be extra lenient, extra gracious, and alert for hot/trigger topics and personalities. Some of us old-timers can really notice when the board's ambience changes, and I think that we sometimes feel helpless to guard this precious resource. I think understanding the physical (at least Internet-wise) fluctuations of Babble-land will lend insight into these issues. And should we find that it's all random chaos (quantum chaos if we're lucky :-) than we'll know that we're doing all we can and not have to feel any guilt when a small jocular comment incites a flame war.
Just some passing thoughts,
dove
poster:dove
thread:1297
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20001011/msgs/1310.html