Blog hosts, as well as sites like Myspace and Facebook make it easier than ever to share personal information with anyone who can turn on a computer.
Setting up a profile, or starting a blog can be a great way to keep up with friends and connect with other GLBT teens, but there are a few things to think about before going live.
- Are you going to use your own name or a pseudonym?
- Who, if anyone, will you tell about your blog or profile?
- What will you do if someone you never anticipated (say Grandma or your dentist) finds your blog or profile?
- Will you mention your sexual orientation?
- Will you respond if you get negative or hostile responses to information you post? How?
- Who will you tell if you fear you might be the target of cyber bullying, or an online predator?
Remember, even if you set a profile to private it isn't all that hard for someone to simply copy, paste, and forward your information, or save it for later. You might want to keep that in mind before you decide to post all the details of your hot date or high jinx!
