Discussion of Findings
The Internet serves as a multipurpose resource that excels in helping people to establish online networks. Through mastering the multiple facets of web design, people have been able to develop websites that foster community. PostSecret began as an invitational community that encouraged people to participate in an online art project. The project expanded quickly as secrets poured in from around the world. People who opted to join the movement through posting their own secrets experienced relief that comes from sharing secrets. As proven by the research conducted, people were motivated to join this project because of the opportunity to disclose their intimate secrets freely.
Anonymity has lead to mass amounts of participation on PostSecret. Although people have been presented with the opportunity to share their private disclosures, they were able to do so in a way that did not trace the secret back to them. The execution of Frank Warren’s concept or posting in secrets has enabled people to trust this outlet. The ethos of the website has been exemplified by the display of bold and shocking secrets that do not reflect back on one specific individual. Rather, people within the community perceive these statements to insightful and inspiring. The comfort people find in the secrets of others has established an equally comfortable community. Members within the community have proven their commitment to one another and support.
Just as the secrets were able to be categorized, the message boards have been as well. Within the message boards of PostSecret there are multiple subcategories addressing the various topics people cover in their confessions. Pictured below are some of the possible discussion topics.
Within the designated message boards, people can use their registered user name to post and converse with strangers that may be able to offer insights based on their own experiences. Upon entering the forum that most appropriately fits the need of the user, they'll find an array of different subtopics from which to choose. One of the most influential subtopics that created that ethos of credibility comes from the "introduce yourself" boards. New users are encouraged to introduce themselves and share facts about themselves including what has brought them to the message boards. Many of the introductions made through the boards including: "Secrets of Spirituality," "Secrets of Ages 20 and Over," and "Secrets of Ages 35 and Older" seem to be more traditional. People generally state their name, age, interests, and something brief about their connection to the board. These posts are significantly more upbeat than that of the boards including: "Secrets of Mental Health," "Secrets of Addiction and Recovery," and "Secrets of the LGBTQ Community" which tend to be darker and heavier in disclosure.
Although the contact people make is entirely digital, the process of establishing ties is congruent with that of making acquaintances in person. The introductions go a long way in terms of establishing a user as a real individual in whom others can confide their ideas, opinions, and secrets. Despite this online platform for communication, there are some events Frank Warren hosts to bring people together. For example there is the annual PostSecret picnic that people attend to meet the strangers who have so impacted their lives. Many of these people have even had their lives saved by complete strangers. PostSecret users have been able to turn to their peers for words of encouragement during their darkest hours. There are an abundance of secrets posted that are confessions about wanting to commit suicide or having attempted suicide previously. In response, PostSecret has focused some of its attention to suicide prevention.
During his young adulthood, Frank Warren suffered with depression. Feeling insecure and alone, Warren was on the verge of bringing an end to his life. In a moment strength and perseverance, he sought out resources of help to provide him clarity. Calling a suicide hotline saved Warren’s life. Warren said, "The universal truth about secrets, is that sometimes when we think we are keeping a secret, that secret is keeping us. By knowing that someone shares the secret, the burden gets a little lighter (Karn, Alexis)." Having worn the shoes that many of his readers currently find themselves in, has further empowered Frank Warren to save lives. His empathy and compassion are exemplified by his constant efforts to save lives or connect others to those who will. PostSecret partnered with The National Hope Hotline to share resources of hope and inspire resilience.
Not only can endless message boards be accessed through PostSecret, but due to the partnership with The National Hope Hotline people can access hope across the world. On the PostSecret page there is a link to the wiki page, which provides the telephone numbers to hotlines across America and other countries as well.
Though there are no figures stating the amount of lives saved by these resources, it is apparent in the words of PostSecret users that this platform has undoubtedly changed and saved their lives.
The content of the PostSecret Community Chat forum exemplifies the mission of PostSecret, which is to connect people with themselves and others. The forum is a portrait of community reaffirmed by strength and hope. PostSecret has been designed to continuously endorse self-disclosure. Self-disclosure is reliant upon trust and reciprocity.
The trust has been discussed and proven through the previous information provided regarding what and how people share. The reciprocity is evidenced through the continued support and resources that PostSecret is able to provide by way of Frank Warren and other active users.
In order for the PostSecret community to continue to supply the resources that it does, it is increasingly important for users to reciprocate by contributing both resources and inspirations of their own. It is simply not enough for people to post their secrets. Although the submission of secrets is the foundation of this website, the message boards have enabled a community to thrive. Participation online has become ingrained into the culture of communication in America. As technological advancements continue to be integrated into daily life, it will be increasingly important for people to make themselves aware of the platforms that exist online. For movements like PostSecret to continue to prosper and benefit the greater good of society, people must continue to reciprocate through maintaining the message boards and mailing in their decorated postcards.
Discussion of "Discussion of Findings"
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