Personal Experience of Internet Engagement Influencing My Thinking

    Personal Experience of Internet Engagement Influencing My Thinking Personal Example: Becoming an Advocate for Mental Health Awareness A few years ago, I stumbled upon a series of online discussions and social media campaigns surrounding mental health awareness. Initially, I had a limited understanding of mental health issues, often viewing them through a stigmatized lens. However, my engagement with various articles, personal stories, and advocacy videos on platforms like Twitter and Instagram significantly influenced my thinking and attitude towards mental health. Concepts Explaining My Influence 1. Confirmation Bias: As I began to explore mental health discussions online, I was drawn to content that reaffirmed my growing belief in the importance of mental health awareness. I actively sought out stories and articles that echoed this sentiment. This confirmation bias led me to overlook conflicting views or critiques of mental health campaigns, reinforcing my newfound perspective without allowing for a balanced understanding of the complexities involved. 2. Social Proof: The overwhelming support for mental health advocacy within online communities also played a crucial role in shaping my attitudes. As I witnessed numerous influencers, celebrities, and everyday individuals sharing their stories and supporting mental health initiatives, I felt a sense of social validation in embracing this cause. The idea that many respected voices were promoting mental health awareness created a strong social proof effect that encouraged me to adopt similar beliefs and engage in advocacy myself. 3. Echo Chambers: My engagement with mental health content led me to become part of an echo chamber where discussions centered around the significance of mental health were prevalent. Within this community, dissenting opinions were rare, and the prevailing narrative emphasized understanding and compassion. While this sense of belonging was empowering, it also meant that I was not exposed to critical perspectives that could have challenged or enriched my understanding of mental health issues. Outcome: Strengthened Judgment As a result of my engagement with these online communities, my attitudes towards mental health were not only influenced but positively strengthened. I became an advocate for mental health awareness, actively participating in discussions, sharing resources, and promoting destigmatization efforts within my circles. While my initial judgment about mental health was somewhat limited, the internet played a pivotal role in expanding my understanding and empathy towards those experiencing mental health challenges. However, it's essential to recognize that while my engagement led to a more positive attitude, it was also somewhat insular due to the echo chamber effect and confirmation bias. This experience highlights the dual-edged nature of internet engagement, where the potential for growth and awareness can coexist with the risks of developing a narrow perspective. Conclusion In summary, my personal experience illustrates how internet engagement can profoundly influence attitudes and beliefs, particularly concerning complex social issues like mental health. Concepts such as confirmation bias, social proof, and echo chambers help explain why I was influenced in this instance. Ultimately, while my engagement strengthened my judgment about the importance of mental health awareness, it also serves as a reminder to remain open to diverse perspectives and avoid becoming too entrenched in any single narrative. This balance is essential for fostering a comprehensive and informed understanding of multifaceted issues.

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