When online communication goes wrong

Many of us belong to online communities, and share plenty of personal information with others on the internet. Sometimes, whether on purpose or not, we might post content that could get us in trouble. Take for example the following situation. According to this website, a young intern wanted to celebrate Halloween, lied using a family obligation cover, and got caught when boss found evidential photos on Facebook. The following emails were exchanged between Kevin the intern and his boss, Paul.

Paul/Jill,

I just wanted to let you know that I will not be able to come into work tomorrow. Something came up at home and I had to go to New York this morning for the next couple of days. I apologize for the delayed notice.

Kind regards,
Kevin

Kevin's boss followed up by checking Facebook where he found this picture of his intern sporting a full fairy costume and celebrating with a can of Busch Light. What else could Paul do but reply to Kevin, attach the photo, and BCC the entire company on the email?

Kevin,

Thanks for letting us know—hope everything is ok in New York. (cool wand)

Cheers,
PCD

What are your thoughts on this situation? What are some other potential consequences of sharing personal information online?

Expectations

You made it through the first week of classes. Congratulations! What do you hope to take away from this class? What are your expectations? Do you have any concerns or fears? Share below and have a great weekend!

The Self

As we study the relationship between self-concept, self-esteem and how we communicate, take a moment to watch parts 1, 2 and 4 of the documentary Philosophy: Guide to Happiness. 

What conclusions did you draw from the film?  

USA Today: Social media makes it easy to share and overshare alike

"Your status update could get you fired." 

Watch the USA Today video and read the article, and tell us what you think of Lobato's situation and online privacy and oversharing.

It's a wrap!

Reaction papers, speeches, exams, the often-dreaded group project and fourteen chapters later, we've reached the end of the semester. Phew! Congratulations. Tell us what you learned from this course. What will you take away from it? What was your favorite part? What did you not like and wish would've been different? Make one last use of this virtual soap box and enjoy your "winter" break!

There is a HUGE difference between 'yeah' and 'yes'

Ivy League sketch comedy group Harvard Sailing Team takes on relationships issues from inverted male and female points of view. Not forgetting this is a comedy sketch, do you think there is any truth to the clip or is it a mere exaggeration? Are there contradictions? Share your thoughts and opinions on relationship conflicts styles and each gender's perspective of the other.

What's Love Got To Do With It

We all have something to say when it comes to the topic of intimate relationships - from break-ups and make-ups to cheating scandals and marriage proposals. In the documentary How Will We Love, filmmaker and composer Chris Brickler explores the human experience of romantic love, its challenges and what it takes to sustain a long-term commitment. Add to this conversation by sharing your insights about this film.