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Hidden identities

ieva

This is probably more of a question to admins, but also I'm wondering(as we usually do), is it just me?

I love this forum; I really do, yet it bugs me that I'm not allowed to use my real name and photo.  Since finding out that I'm autistic and that I have spent most of my life masking, it is crucial for my well-being to be my raw self and not use masks. 

I do understand the reasoning behind these forum rules, yet considering that we are all adults in here, I believe we should have a choice to reveal our true identity or not. Since the very important step to learning to live with autism is to stop masking. 

I would truly appreciate the input from the community, which I think I like a lot x

Just wanted to add that if we are considered as being a vulnerable community, shouldn't our forum conversations be viewed by registered members only?

[image removed by mod - Rule 2]

  • in reply to B

    I think if we are classed as vulnerable then this forum should be private. It doesn't make sense (to me anyway) to have to mask in order to protect myself from random people on the internet when I have signed up to a community specifically aiming to provide a safe space for fellow ND folk. 

  • in reply to Alexa
    Alexa said:
    I didn't know there rules about such things.

    It's under 'staying anonymous' here:

    https://community.autism.org.uk/p/communityfaqs#mcetoc_1jaebhgj74

    and 'Rule 2' here:

      (Missing Page) 

    For some reason that link doesn't work but it's the drop down from the top banner 'Community Rules'.

    'Rule 2: No personal information or identifiable content 
    As the Online Community is public, do not share personal or identifying details about yourself or anyone else. This includes full names, addresses, contact details, social media profiles, or identifiable photos. Links to social media posts or videos are allowed if relevant and in compliance with these rules.' 

  • ieva said:
    it bugs me that I'm not allowed to use my real name and photo

    I don't understand. Alexa is my real name. I've never been asked to change it. I can't comment about using my photo because I never do; in fact, I'm not sure I have a photo of me other than the one I took for my driving licence. Smile

    I didn't know there rules about such things.

  • in reply to B

    Spot on, it should be optional, not as a blanket rule in one or another way ...

  • I take your point but some of the reasoning may be that this isn't a closed forum ie it can be read by anyone whether a member or not.

    I think we are seen as vulnerable. 

    I wonder whether it's easier for NAS to have a blanket rule so that the most vulnerable amongst us are protected.

    Seeing the awful things that some public figures are subjected to on social media I personally would be anxious to reveal my identity. 

    As you say though it might be best being optional.

    I think I sit on the fence on this.

    Thinking