Preventing Harmful Behaviour in Online Communities: Censorship and Interventions

Preventing Harmful Behaviour in Online Communities explores the ethics and logistics of censoring problematic communications online that might encourage a person to engage in harmful behavior. It draws on group dynamics research to understand the dangerous gap between the clinical community and caregivers versus the pro-anorexia and pro-self-harm communities. The book offers practical guidelines for addressing the needs of those who band together to resist the healthcare community, suggesting ways to address their concerns and encourage healing. It also outlines the real nature of harm-based communities online, examining their appeal and dangers, and examining self-censorship and intervention methods for dealing with harmful content online.

Format: Hardback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Preventing Harmful Behaviour in Online Communities delves into the complex ethical and logistical considerations surrounding the censorship of problematic communications online that can potentially encourage individuals to engage in harmful behaviors. Drawing upon theories of digital rhetoric and conducting close primary source analysis, Zoe Alderton explores the dynamics within certain online communities that promote negative and destructive ideas, leading community members to engage in practices such as self-harm, disordered eating, and suicide. This insightful book provides valuable insights into the dangerous gap between the clinical community, caregivers, and pro-anorexia and pro-self-harm communities, enabling caregivers and medical professionals to gain a better understanding of the hidden online communities their young charges may be part of. It delves into the often-unanticipated needs of those who unite to resist the healthcare community, offering practical strategies to address their concerns and foster healing.

Chapters in the book examine the alarming spread of self-harm ideas through personal contact, community unease, fiction, song, and even the internet, highlighting the potential for these ideas to transcend national boundaries and historical periods. Additionally, the book sheds light on the real nature of harm-based communities online, exploring both their appeal and dangers. It also examines the phenomenon of self-censorship and intervention methods employed to deal with harmful content online.

Rather than advocating for punishment or censorship as the primary approach, Preventing Harmful Behaviour in Online Communities presents constructive guidelines that advocate for a more holistic and valid approach to expressing negative moods and creating safe peer support networks. This book is particularly relevant for professionals tasked with protecting vulnerable individuals, as it offers valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the complex terrain of online harm prevention.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367647483