Why is it that people in online computer gaming forums or Internet chatrooms may be more likely to speak in aggressive or derogatory manners to other users, compared to the interaction styles they might use when communicating face-to-face?
a) because everyone else in the room usually does that and they are yielding to the effects of normative conformity
b) because they usually know how to sever their connection before they can be identified by the person that they are insulting
c) because they know that people playing the same games or frequenting the same forums will understand that they are just kidding
d) because they experience the deindividuation that is afforded by anonymity
ANS: D, Anonymity and an abdication of personal responsibility have been cited as underlying components of deindividuation, and this can be seen in the way people behave online when they do not feel responsible for their own actions or words.
You might also like to view...
Ultrasound is used in amniocentesis and CVS
a. True b. False Indicate whether the statement is true or false
Research finds that jealousy is closely related to what two areas?
a. Trust and self-esteem b. Loyalty and self-confidence c. Self-disclosure and self-confidence d. Caring and loyalty
According to the Big Ten Suicide Study, which student below is MOST likely to commit suicide?
a. Leigh Anne, who is 26 years old. b. Mac, who has changed majors at least five times. c. Elise, who maintains contacts with family and peers from home. d. Edward, who has access to alcohol and weapons.
The view that cultures are unified systems with shared values and beliefs
A) is true of collectivistic cultures but not individualistic cultures. B) overlooks the role of conflict and opposition within cultures. C) is strongly supported by scientific surveys. D) is more true of Western than of East Asian societies.