Proper Netiquette

People often underestimate the impression they can have on others online. Whether you are sending an email to a co-worker, or posting a comment on a youtube video, it is important to have proper netiquette on the internet.

- Act like you are in person. The easiest way to stay respectful to yourself and others is to act like you are face to face. This is especially true when you on a less professional platform like social media. Anonymity doesn't give you the right to be disrespectful.

- Avoid sarcasm. While sarcasm can be funny, it works much better when you can hear the tone in someone's voice. Typing a sarcstic comment can be extremely confusing, and someone might think you are saying something else entirely.

- Use proper grammar. This doesn't always mean to use the most complicated words in your vocabulary. Your grammar should reflect the seriousness of the situation. In a serious work email, you shouldn't be typing "u" instead of "you". In a more casual setting like a blog, just keep it formal enough that anyone can understand what you are saying.

- Treat others how you want to be treated. Just like an in person interaction, the general idea is to be respectful. if you show respect to others online, many will often reciprocate, creating a healthier environment online.

Video Game Addiction

Video game addiction has often been compared to addictions to drugs and alcohol by many researchers. While it may seem obsurd to some, it has been shown that games trigger the same parts of your brain, releasing dopamine and making you feel happy. If you or someone close to you seems to be overly attached to video games, be sure to look into it.

- Some of the main symptoms include: thinking about games all of the time, not doing the things you used to like, putting video games before other important parts of your life, and feeling bad when you can't play.

- It is estimated that 1-9% of gamers suffer from video game addiction.

- Sitting around and playing video games can have a variety of negative effects on your body. Without proper excercise, you will most likely gain weight and develop poor posture. Your eyes can become strained from staring at a screen for too long, leading to eyewear such as glasses or contact lenses. It is also shown that those with video game addiction have poorer hygeine.

- Video games can also have negative effects on your social life and mentality. If you become to committed to gaming, your relationships with other poeple may fall apart. You will also find that you won't be able to think about anything else. Spending every moment thinking about one thing isn't a healthy mindset.

- Make sure to take breaks. Separating sessions will greatly reduce the risk factors, but still be weary of the possiblities.

Informational Videos

Learn more about proper netiquette and video game addictions below.