We had an interesting discussion today about privacy and self-censoring. We all have different levels of each, and I found it very interesting.
Privacy: Most of the mom bloggers I know don't use their children's real names on their blogs. There are crazy people out there, and I think that's probably a good idea. I am most likely going to adopt that tactic in my family blog once the baby comes along. Some of the bloggers today said they don't use anyone's real names, including their own, their spouses, their friends or even strangers. Some do not post pictures. Anything But Nice had a good post about blog privacy and what it means to her the other day. Others use names and pictures but practice self-censoring when it comes to topical content.
Self-censoring: Involves the opinions we choose to share or not share on our blogs, and how in-depth we go about our own feelings or our private lives. Some blogs are so topic-specific that there isn't much room for personal opinion at all. Some of us share things about our lives but not our personal opinions, in order to avoid taking stance on controversial issues. Other blogs are actually centered around starting a discussion and ask questions to prompt responses. Some bloggers feel comfortable sharing everything about their personal lives, and I definitely have a respect for that. I think you know that I don't do that - I don't talk about my relationship with my husband outside our community group because it would bother him. I don't weigh in personally on "hot button" issues I know most of my readers might feel strongly about, because I know we don't always agree. I'm not going to convince you and you're not going to convince me. The purpose of this blog is not to incite a riot and I don't want to have to delete anyone's comments (although I have done it before).
It was a good discussion and I'd love to hear more people's opinions one day.
Finally, here are pictures from today which I have camouflaged appropriately in respect of everyone's privacy :-)
Blogroll of the blogs that were represented. It was great to meet everyone!
Trendy Mommy
Show Me The Curry
When did I go from kid to grown up?
Crazy Says What and The Aisle Files
My Inner French Girl
