The Paradox of Online Communication

Have you ever noticed how conflict can get blown out of proportion online?

What may begin as a small difference of opinion, or misunderstanding, becomes a major issue very quickly.

Conflict can be difficult at the best of times, but what is it about online communication that seems to ignite flaming and make conflicts more difficult to resolve?

Handling conflict constructively is hard at the best times, and it can be even harder online.

It can take a great deal of effort, care, and thoughtfulness to address differences, tensions, and conflicts online.

Paradoxically, some of the same things that contribute to heightened conflict online can contribute to peaceful resolutions as well. The Internet is an ideal place to practice communication and conflict resolution skills.

Just as the absence of visual and auditory cues, the anonymity, invisibility, delayed reactions, and neutralizing of status free us to say what ever negative thing we want, they can also free us to try new, and more positive communication styles and to take all the time we need to do that.

As with any new technology, the Internet can be used to enhance our personal growth and relationships, or to alienate us from each other. It's our choice.

READ MORE HERE

http://www.rider.edu/~suler/psycyber/conflict.html

Kali Munro, © 2002
All rights reserved.