Interacting with one of the above is not in and of itself dangerous, but in some cases these seekers can put their online correspondents into uncomfortable situations.
Dealing With Difficult Situations Online
If you find yourself in over your head, such as when you find yourself counseling someone who has a problem you are not equipped to handle, Adamse suggests taking the following steps:
- Refer them to someone who can help. Take five minutes and perform an Internet search for resources. Then go back to the person you are corresponding with and say, "I can't advise you on what to do, but this organization or this book might be helpful to you." Alternatively, you might simply say: "You sound like you're really hurting right now. You need to talk to a doctor right away or call a crisis line."
- Step back and size up the relationship. "It's okay to ask in cyberspace, "What am I getting out of this interaction?" says Adamse. You have the right to back off at any time, what Adamse calls "dropping off the edges of cyberspace." Anonymity works both ways, so if you are in a situation that makes you uncomfortable, simply stop responding to IMs (instant messages) or e-mails. In extreme cases, you may want to change your cyber handle or profile name.
- If you feel threatened, ask for some back up. Alert the Webmaster or your Internet service provider (ISP). There are now guardian angels in cyberspace, such as a group of on
