Do People Share Different Types of Information Online vs In Person? Why?

In the digital age, the internet has become a primary platform for social interaction and information exchange. However, the nature of online communication often differs significantly from face-to-face interactions. In this article, we will explore why people share different types of information online versus in person, the reasons behind this behavior, and the potential consequences of our actions in the digital world.

Why People Share Differently Online vs In Person

Protected by the Screen: The internet provides a layer of protection that can make people feel shielded from the consequences of their words and actions. This sense of anonymity can lead to a more casual, uninhibited sharing of information. Online communication often appears more playful, strategic, and less emotionally intense compared to in-person interactions.

Control Illusion: People mistakenly believe that they maintain a high level of control over their digital lives. While it’s true that we can delete posts and messages, the digital footprint we leave can be permanent and has real-world implications. What we share online can be seen, read, and heard by a much broader audience, leading to potential misunderstandings, judgments, and repercussions.

The Dual Nature of Digital Communication

Surrogate Social Interaction: Social media and online platforms are a form of surrogate social interaction. They offer a space for people to express themselves, connect with others, and participate in various forms of digital discourse. However, these interactions often lack the emotional and non-verbal cues present in face-to-face communication. This can lead to misunderstandings and a greater risk of social failure.

Risk vs. Convenience: In person, we often take the risk of social failure seriously, as there is no easy way to escape a situation once it has begun. Online, we can easily distance ourselves from a situation by leaving a conversation or deleting a message. This convenience can encourage impulsive sharing without fully considering the consequences.

The Long-Term Impact of Online Communication

Permanence: Unlike face-to-face interactions, what is shared online typically stays online for a very long time. This permanence means that every piece of information we share can have a ripple effect on our daily lives, including job opportunities, relationships, and overall reputation.

Consequences: The information we share online can impact our professional and personal lives in ways we might not immediately realize. Employers, partners, and even friends and acquaintances can access the information we post, leading to potential bias, discrimination, and loss of opportunities.

Best Practices for Online Information Sharing

Exercise Caution and Mindfulness: It’s crucial to be mindful of what we share online and why. We should avoid sharing private or sensitive information about ourselves until we are confident that it will not be misused. This includes being cautious about where and how we share our information and considering the long-term implications of our actions.

Build Trust Gradually: When engaging with new or unfamiliar people online, it’s important to build trust gradually. Sharing personal information should only occur after a certain level of trust has been established. This can help prevent misunderstandings and protect our privacy and reputation.

Set Boundaries: Understanding our own digital boundaries and those of others is key to maintaining healthy online relationships. Setting clear expectations and respecting each other’s privacy can help create a more positive and productive online environment.

Ultimately, the shift from in-person interactions to online communication has significantly altered our patterns of information sharing. While online platforms offer unprecedented opportunities for connection and expression, they also present unique challenges and risks. By understanding these differences and taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and our information, we can navigate the digital landscape more wisely and responsibly.