Short Notes on Key Digital Media Topics
a. Online Disinhibition Effect
The Online Disinhibition Effect (ODE) refers to the tendency of people to behave more freely, openly, or aggressively online than they would in face-to-face interactions. This psychological phenomenon occurs because users feel anonymous, less accountable, and detached in digital spaces.
There are two main types of disinhibition:
- Benign Disinhibition: People share personal experiences, seek support, or express emotions they might hide in real life. For example, individuals may open up on online forums about mental health struggles.
- Toxic Disinhibition: Users may engage in cyberbullying, hate speech, or trolling because they feel shielded behind screens.
Factors like anonymity, invisibility, delayed responses, and lack of authority contribute to this effect. While ODE allows for honest expression and support, it can also lead to online abuse. Therefore, awareness and digital etiquette are essential in managing its impact on online communities.
b. ICT and Health Communication
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have significantly transformed health communication by making health information more accessible, timely, and interactive. ICT includes tools like mobile apps, websites, SMS services, social media, and telemedicine platforms that promote public health awareness and patient care.
Examples:
- Telemedicine: Doctors can consult patients remotely via video calls, especially useful in rural areas.
- mHealth (Mobile Health): Apps like Aarogya Setu or fitness trackers help monitor health and spread awareness.
- SMS Alerts: Government and NGOs use bulk SMS to inform people about vaccination drives or disease prevention.
ICT helps in spreading accurate information during health crises like COVID-19, combating misinformation, and reaching vulnerable populations. It also encourages patient engagement and preventive care. However, digital literacy and access remain challenges, especially in rural or low-income areas.