View Full Version : Why do people participate in online forums? Why can they be so addictive?
Online discussion forums can be very addictive.
When you find one that you feel compelled to participate in, it can be very hard to stay away!
Why so?
I have my own thoughts, but I am curious to hear from others who have participated in online forums (which can include this one & any others)...
What do you get out of participating in online discussions?
What purpose/s do forums serve?
What need/s do they fulfill?
Ikasu
12-18-2008, 05:31 PM
It's the anticipation of posts in response to your thoughts. I think that's where the addiction sets in, you're so curious on how people will respond.
ZY123
12-18-2008, 05:33 PM
Here's an honest answer that is not a good one:
90% of the time I'm posting on here is when I'm procrastinating doing my work (I have a lot of work I need to do at home) or procrastinating chores!
The other 10% of the time I get really into the conversations and can't seem to pull myself away.
BTW...I'm procrastinating something right now!
Horizon
12-18-2008, 05:36 PM
It's the anticipation of posts in response to your thoughts. I think that's where the addiction sets in, you're so curious on how people will respond.
Stamp!!!
I was always semi addicted, but even more so since August when I was laid off my main job. Then my hospice care dried up and I have even more time on my hands. I also think that the forum has to be something that you are very interested in or is close to your heart.
I have also made friends and like to keep up with them and what they are doing and what they think about things.
I think an online discussion is much more easy to have than a face to face discussion. You have all the time in the world to think of response to something you feel is worth discussing.
Like during the primaries, we felt compelled to defend Hillary against what we felt was bias and unfair treatment.
People join forums to discuss issues and hobbies that they enjoy, but really don't have anyone else to constantly keep them interested. Not to mention when you're bored and have absolutely NOTHING to do, the forum can create funny times! :p
Ikasu
12-18-2008, 05:41 PM
I think an online discussion is much more easy to have than a face to face discussion. You have all the time in the world to think of response to something you feel is worth discussing.
Like during the primaries, we felt compelled to defend Hillary against what we felt was bias and unfair treatment.
People join forums to discuss issues and hobbies that they enjoy, but really don't have anyone else to constantly keep them interested. Not to mention when you're bored and have absolutely NOTHING to do, the forum can create funny times! :p
I agree. I also think people shy away from saying what they really believe in a real conversation, so they turn to online board. There they are more comfortable stating their beliefs. It's a great way to vent your frustrations over things you may not say irl.
I agree. I also think people shy away from saying what they really believe in a real conversation, so they turn to online board. There they are more comfortable stating their beliefs. It's a great way to vent your frustrations over things you may not say irl.
That is both a good and bad thing!
It's the anticipation of posts in response to your thoughts. I think that's where the addiction sets in, you're so curious on how people will respond.
Definitely agree with this! And the more active the forum is, the more your statement applies!
I agree. I also think people shy away from saying what they really believe in a real conversation, so they turn to online board. There they are more comfortable stating their beliefs. It's a great way to vent your frustrations over things you may not say irl.
Not to mention people often shy away because they don't want to experience ridcule form people they know. They'd rather take it from a complete stranger they'll never meet.
Venting is certainly one of the highlights of a forum! LOL
Jobu86
12-18-2008, 05:48 PM
Nobody close to me in real life will have any decent political discussion with me. My mom is so liberal that I've had to quiet her down in restaurants when she has too much wine and starts ranting about Bush, and my girlfriend is too busy to follow the news much. The rest of my family and friends just don't find it interesting enough to discuss much. Without online forums I'd have nowhere to go!
Horizon
12-18-2008, 05:52 PM
Nobody close to me in real life will have any decent political discussion with me. My mom is so liberal that I've had to quiet her down in restaurants when she has too much wine and starts ranting about Bush, and my girlfriend is too busy to follow the news much. The rest of my family and friends just don't find it interesting enough to discuss much. Without online forums I'd have nowhere to go!
That is also my reason for being here. I joined shortly after my mom passed in an effort to find SOMEONE to converse with about the election. No on else in my fam is politically interested, let alone, active. Most of my friends are either apathetic or conservative. My Dem friends were voting Obama, so I was politically homeless.
I think another drawcard for any forum that has ongoing activity is the intrigue about reading new material and seeing what will be posted next! Forums can be very unpredictable - especially when the membership is open - and that can be engaging in a way.
I am sure watching the Jerry Springer type arguments that can take place between members of a forum is also a drawcard for some - it can be like watching a train wreck in action! :eek:
TheTaoOfBill
12-18-2008, 06:42 PM
Hey speaking of being addicted...Murray if we were to request a temp ban for like a week would you be able to do that? At a forum I modded before there was time limit bans.
I'm just wondering because sometimes I really need to get away from the forums lol. Like finals weeks and such and I can't help but keep coming back lol.
I am sure watching the Jerry Springer type arguments that can take place between members of a forum is also a drawcard for some - it can be like watching a train wreck in action! :eek:
No, those are the best arguements around! I should know... I only created about 20 of them.:rolleyes:
Horizon
12-18-2008, 06:45 PM
No, those are the best arguements around! I should know... I only created about 20 of them.:rolleyes:
You and Calmati and I are famous for silly threads when another heads south!!
It's so fun and some are quite informational.
You and Calmati and I are famous for silly threads when another heads south!!
It's so fun and some are quite informational.
Those are... the Vatican is our source at all times. Can't forget that!:D
calmati
12-18-2008, 06:48 PM
Online discussion forums can be very addictive.
When you find one that you feel compelled to participate in, it can be very hard to stay away!
Why so?
I have my own thoughts, but I am curious to hear from others who have participated in online forums (which can include this one & any others)...
What do you get out of participating in online discussions?
What purpose/s do forums serve?
What need/s do they fulfill?
They can be very addictive!
For myself, after I've become accustomed to the members and have made a few friends -- it becomes a place where I can (usually) relax, have a cup of coffee and "shoot the breeze". This is my kitchen table, my back fence.
Some days I'm a chatterer. Other days, I'm more of a listener (lurking, reading, not posting much). It just depends on the topics and my mood at the time.
What do I get out of participating in online discussions? A sense of belonging -- feeling like my opinion may just matter once in a while -- a sense of camaraderie -- and YES, sometimes to simply have fun.
What purposes do forums serve? For me, an opportunity to find others that share similar interests, and diverse viewpoints -- and to learn from each other -- to teach each other.
What needs do they fulfill? I've already answered that (this is my kitchen table). :)
Horizon
12-18-2008, 06:49 PM
Those are... the Vatican is our source at all times. Can't forget that!:D
The Vatican and CalmatiNews.
They can be very addictive!
For myself, after I've become accustomed to the members and have made a few friends -- it becomes a place where I can (usually) relax, have a cup of coffee and "shoot the breeze". This is my kitchen table, my back fence.
Some days I'm a chatterer. Other days, I'm more of a listener (lurking, reading, not posting much). It just depends on the topics and my mood at the time.
What do I get out of participating in online discussions? A sense of belonging -- feeling like my opinion may just matter once in a while -- a sense of camaraderie -- and YES, sometimes to simply have fun.
What purposes do forums serve? For me, an opportunity to find others that share similar interests, and diverse viewpoints -- and to learn from each other -- to teach each other.
What needs do they fulfill? I've already answered that (this is my kitchen table). :)
There she is!!!:eek: You've been in lurker mode for a few days!
The Vatican and CalmatiNews.
Very reliable sources I might add. :cool:
Horizon
12-18-2008, 06:52 PM
***Waves at Calmati***
Hey, stranger!!!!!:D
calmati
12-18-2008, 06:52 PM
I think another drawcard for any forum that has ongoing activity is the intrigue about reading new material and seeing what will be posted next! Forums can be very unpredictable - especially when the membership is open - and that can be engaging in a way.
Tabloid journalism. Nobody wants to admit that they read it... but come on -- it's so hard to resist!
As long as I'm not the object of the drama... sure, I'll admit to reading it... and sometimes posting (though I do try to control myself). I know that's BAD... but I am human.
ZY123
12-18-2008, 06:53 PM
People enjoy the abuse.
calmati
12-18-2008, 06:54 PM
Sorry... I have been lurking a bit more lately. I did post a little here and there. I just have my LURKER days and my SMARTASS days and my CHATTY days... I have lots of days. :)
Sorry... I have been lurking a bit more lately. I did post a little here and there. I just have my LURKER days and my SMARTASS days and my CHATTY days... I have lots of days. :)
Me too.
I also lurk at times!
Horizon
12-18-2008, 06:57 PM
Me too.
I also lurk at times!
We know. We all know that certain posts bring you out of lurker mode!!
Horizon
12-18-2008, 06:57 PM
We know. We all know that certain posts bring you out of lurker mode!!
We joke about your Ninja Sense!!!
We joke about your Ninja Sense!!!
AHAHA! His ninja sense when things get crazy! NEVER FAILS!:eek::D:p
Brooke
12-18-2008, 06:59 PM
I just like finding places online where I can share my passions and interests with others. I have met some of my closest friends online through horse racing forums, forums for my favorite shows, politics forums. It's great to have. It's a sense of community I think. I don't have too many people in real life with the same passions or even an understanding of my passions like I do on these boards. Especially with you guys and this whole ride Hillary took us on this year and brought us all together. :D
Part of it is procrastination too (I seriously should be cleaning..lol), and wanting to see how people respond to my own thoughts.
We know. We all know that certain posts bring you out of lurker mode!!
Might be the anti-gay ones!?!
Horizon
12-18-2008, 07:05 PM
Might be the anti-gay ones!?!
Hmmm...... YEP!!!!
And when some of us get a little TOO bitchy!!!;);)
Part of it is procrastination too (I seriously should be cleaning..lol), and wanting to see how people respond to my own thoughts.
Definitely. Or distraction.
Sometimes I am not even looking to be distracted but it happens anyway when you find threads you want to read or post in.
Hmmm...... YEP!!!!
And when some of us get a little TOO bitchy!!!;);)
Yes that too!
Yes that too!
That seriosuly never fails. Just as the arguemnt is reaching the boiling point... BAM! There you are! :eek:
Ikasu
12-18-2008, 07:06 PM
And when some of us get a little TOO bitchy!!!;);)
:eek: the b word
I just like finding places online where I can share my passions and interests with others. I have met some of my closest friends online through horse racing forums, forums for my favorite shows, politics forums. It's great to have. It's a sense of community I think. I don't have too many people in real life with the same passions or even an understanding of my passions like I do on these boards. Especially with you guys and this whole ride Hillary took us on this year and brought us all together. :D
Part of it is procrastination too (I seriously should be cleaning..lol), and wanting to see how people respond to my own thoughts.
The sense of community can be powerful when the group is fairly united/cohensive. That of course breaks down, however, when conflicts start to develop or the forum becomes more open. That definitely happened here post-November 4.
Horizon
12-18-2008, 07:07 PM
:eek: the b word
You need to start covering your eyes!!!! LMAO!!!:eek::D:D
That seriosuly never fails. Just as the arguemnt is reaching the boiling point... BAM! There you are! :eek:
Well, lately I have been more lax and have had less energy to intervene.
There is a part of me that just "hopes" people will lay off and settle down. That's not always the case!
Ikasu
12-18-2008, 07:09 PM
You need to start covering your eyes!!!! LMAO!!!:eek::D:D
I'm too conservative! :D :p
Well, lately I have been more lax and have had less energy to intervene.
There is a part of me that just "hopes" people will lay off and settle down. That's not always the case!
I guess you haven't discovered the worth while battles in those cases with certain "people".:rolleyes:
Horizon
12-18-2008, 07:13 PM
I'm too conservative! :D :p
It's cute!
Ikasu
12-18-2008, 07:14 PM
It's cute!
Just stamp me parentally approved!
Just stamp me parentally approved!
http://bestquotes.com/images/ApprovedStamp.jpg
calmati
12-18-2008, 07:33 PM
Well, lately I have been more lax and have had less energy to intervene.
There is a part of me that just "hopes" people will lay off and settle down. That's not always the case!
There have been a few successes. The Christmas thread has resurrected itself a couple of times, even when I thought it didn't have a chance. Also, the "Battleground" thread has it's more sane moments.
But yeah, that's not always the case.
Online discussion forums can be very addictive.
When you find one that you feel compelled to participate in, it can be very hard to stay away!
Why so?
I have my own thoughts, but I am curious to hear from others who have participated in online forums (which can include this one & any others)...
What do you get out of participating in online discussions?
What purpose/s do forums serve?
What need/s do they fulfill?
Please continue :)
Spang
12-19-2008, 12:08 AM
I enjoy this message board, however I have to hold back a lot. If not, I'd be banned. I have a very offensive sense of humor.
Horizon
12-19-2008, 12:09 AM
I enjoy this message board, however I have to hold back a lot. If not, I'd be banned. I have a very offensive sense of humor.
I would never have guessed.:rolleyes:
I enjoy this message board, however I have to hold back a lot. If not, I'd be banned. I have a very offensive sense of humor.
Self-discipline is a good skill to practise and/or strengthen. Keep up the good work!
VotingHillary
12-19-2008, 12:31 AM
This is the only board I have actually become addicted to. Part of that has to do with family situation this past year. Just as the primary election was starting to really heat up here in PA, had a near tragedy in my family which we are still suffering the after-effects of and it completely took me out of the campaigning ability. BTW, it wasn't me that was injured, I am fine. But, this forum was the lone place I felt safe from the media onslaught against Hillary and yes, made me feel safe to know I wasn't the only one that was noticing the media's intrusion rather than reporting during this campaign.
I still came here (until you shut it down, Murray), but I was just so exhausted by the point that you did, I just kind of resigned myself that this was over. When you opened this again, I just had to come back because it was like returning home to family. I love this forum because I learned so much over the last few months and feel like I have made a few friends along the way.
Hell, I can say thank you (wa-du) in the Native American language because of a member of this forum. Now, if I can just get her to teach me how to say Your Welcome!
SoCal4Hillary
12-19-2008, 02:14 AM
Please continue :)My reasons have changed/evolved over the years.
I first started using forums--or "bulletin boards" back in the day--around 1985. Back then, a large part of the attraction was the novelty of it all.
But that quickly wore off and the reality that I could meet--virtually--people from all over the country, or even the world, who shared--or opposed--my interests and wanted to talk about them was really cool.
Each forum I've participated on over the years fulfilled some need at that time in my life, like HCF did during the craziness of this election year. :eek: When I was very active in the HIV/AIDS arena, I found solace and support online. When I was really getting immersed in animal rights and vegetarianism, I found kindred spirits online. And so on.
The common thread is always the sharing of information, ideas, and opinions. I really can't imagine my life WITHOUT its forum component!
sadie
12-19-2008, 03:45 AM
Nobody close to me in real life will have any decent political discussion with me. My mom is so liberal that I've had to quiet her down in restaurants when she has too much wine and starts ranting about Bush, and my girlfriend is too busy to follow the news much. The rest of my family and friends just don't find it interesting enough to discuss much. Without online forums I'd have nowhere to go!
Me too! My dad is really into politics but he's super conservative, so it usually just ends in a fight. And on the other end, discussions with my extremely liberal friends usually end in insults and the silent treatment...not entirely productive. And everyone else just doesn't care. So online it is!
MrSandMan
12-19-2008, 03:51 AM
Online discussion forums can be very addictive.
When you find one that you feel compelled to participate in, it can be very hard to stay away!
Why so?
I have my own thoughts, but I am curious to hear from others who have participated in online forums (which can include this one & any others)...
What do you get out of participating in online discussions?
What purpose/s do forums serve?
What need/s do they fulfill?
My wife says that I have an addictive personality. I believe her. :p
My wife says that I have an addictive personality. I believe her. :p
Well, I have one too, that's probably why I have been able to maintain this forum!!
Spang
12-19-2008, 04:03 AM
Well, I have one too, that's probably why I have been able to maintain this forum!!
I have one, too. Before a person gets out of the Army they have to be mentally evaluated to ensure they aren't crazy and what not. So anyways, due to my addictive personality, the doc tells me, and I quote without censorship unless the forum does it automatically, "Stay the **** away from cocaine."
Horizon
12-19-2008, 04:18 AM
I have one, too. Before a person gets out of the Army they have to be mentally evaluated to ensure they aren't crazy and what not. So anyways, due to my addictive personality, the doc tells me, and I quote without censorship unless the forum does it automatically, "Stay the **** away from cocaine."
LMAO!!! This place has been like crack to me for months.
LMAO!!! This place has been like crack to me for months.
Seriously this place has been crack during this primary season and I loved every moment of it. Even the completely crazy ass days! :D
foxyladi
12-19-2008, 11:10 AM
:D:D for this elderly,retired grandmother.raising
three grandaughters..
i am pretty much house. bound.i'm the one in charge of keeping,those homefires going..:D
so this forum is my lifeline.i learn so much here.
i feel like everyone here is family..:D
Maverick
12-19-2008, 11:41 AM
I read a lot, but rarely post ... I find I learn and think more in listening mode.
When I do post ... that is when I find the addiction kick in, and for the same reason that so many have already stated - I am interested in hearing what others may think of my thoughts.
Horizon
12-19-2008, 04:12 PM
:D:D for this elderly,retired grandmother.raising
three grandaughters..
i am pretty much house. bound.i'm the one in charge of keeping,those homefires going..:D
so this forum is my lifeline.i learn so much here.
i feel like everyone here is family..:D
((((hugs)))))
Nice of you to say, and Kudos to you for raising your grandchildren!!
I read a lot, but rarely post ... I find I learn and think more in listening mode.
When I do post ... that is when I find the addiction kick in, and for the same reason that so many have already stated - I am interested in hearing what others may think of my thoughts.
Maverick! :eek: Where have you been!?
Your posts are always good to read... try some more of it! :p
This one is still relevant!
This one is still relevant!I guess so...;)
I guess so...;)
Well for me anyway!!!!
Well for me anyway!!!!That's what I meant. HA! ROFL!!
Suzan
01-25-2009, 10:19 PM
It's the anticipation of posts in response to your thoughts. I think that's where the addiction sets in, you're so curious on how people will respond.
I think that's part of it, but it doesn't account for all the addicted lurkers. I think it's the interaction and the mental stimulation and the feeling of being in touch with what's going on. It's also friendship and fun. And for me it's a chance to see reactions to the news from real people rather than talking head pundits, who are usually biased one way or the other.
I think that's part of it, but it doesn't account for all the addicted lurkers. I think it's the interaction and the mental stimulation and the feeling of being in touch with what's going on. It's also friendship and fun. And for me it's a chance to see reactions to the news from real people rather than talking head pundits, who are usually biased one way or the other.
For me, definitely all of the above.
Spang
01-25-2009, 10:23 PM
I was to understand there'd be punch and pie.
Suzan
01-25-2009, 10:25 PM
It's also fun to fight ... uh, debate the issues. ;)
I was to understand there'd be punch and pie.
It was an unplanned event!
I was just sitting here at the computer and thought "what the heck, I'm reopening this place!" ;)
It's also fun to fight ... uh, debate the issues. ;)
LOL it's only been a day! :p
It was an unplanned event!
I was just sitting here at the computer and thought "what the heck, I'm reopening this place!" ;)
Indecisive are we...;)
It was an unplanned event!
I was just sitting here at the computer and thought "what the heck, I'm reopening this place!" ;)I never knew you to be spontaneous, Mr M!:confused:
I never knew you to be spontaneous, Mr M!:confused:
Are you being serious?!
Sometimes I plan things very well.
Other times I find myself in places/situations I hadn't planned on being!!!
Indecisive are we...;)
Ain't that the truth.
I would make a terrible politician. Very indecisive. A big flip-flopper!
ZY123
01-25-2009, 10:47 PM
It was an unplanned event!
I was just sitting here at the computer and thought "what the heck, I'm reopening this place!" ;)
Really? :p:p (j/k)
I don't plan anything...I'm one of those annoying make it up as you go people...drives people around me nuts.
As for forums...part addiction, part procrastination...plus I like chatting people up.
xfiles
01-26-2009, 02:43 AM
Stamp! And a lot of people like me are curious, want to keep their minds stimulated and truly share and receive opinions.
Nobody close to me in real life will have any decent political discussion with me. My mom is so liberal that I've had to quiet her down in restaurants when she has too much wine and starts ranting about Bush, and my girlfriend is too busy to follow the news much. The rest of my family and friends just don't find it interesting enough to discuss much. Without online forums I'd have nowhere to go!
I'm already losing sleep since the re-opening & it's only been a quarter of a day! I should be in bed. :eek:
I'm already losing sleep since the re-opening & it's only been a quarter of a day! I should be in bed. :eek:
Nothing has changed!
The_Basseteer
02-09-2009, 02:28 PM
Being a conservative and working for the Pima County (Tucson, Arizona) Republican makes me sort of the "Red-headed step-child" in this forum, my victories come when some of the people in here agree with me on one point or another. My objective is to have the majority of you turned toward the dark side by 2010
YouTube - Darth Vader - the power of the dark side
Suzan
02-09-2009, 07:09 PM
LOL, I think you came here to be saved from yourself, Basseter.
We've converted many a Republican and if we could find them now, I'm sure they'd tell you they're much happier now!
My objective is to have the majority of you turned toward the dark side by 2010
Not a chance, speaking for myself.
But it's interesting to read contributions from people I don't agree with.
sapphirekishi
03-26-2009, 04:35 AM
talking together
share different ideas with each other
bordening our mind
shareing the enjoyment
so addictive
foxyladi
08-29-2009, 07:28 PM
I was to understand there'd be punch and pie.
we ran out before you got here.:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:
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