Reddit Explains What Things People Should Never, Ever Google Unless They Want To Be Scarred
There are some truly terrible things on the internet, and not all of them are on Facebook.
Getting lost on the internet is much like being an innocent child who can't find their way home after dark.
The smallest noises scare you, and you end up running frantically, trying to find the light.
Yep. It's exactly like that.
Especially when you throw things like the dark web into the mix—yeah, don't even attempt to go there.
You'll fall down a rabbit hole so deep that you'll likely never surface again.
Just kidding.
Buuuut I'm also sort of not.
The reality is we live in the age of information, and not only that, but that same information can be obtained at our fingertips, so time literally just passes us by as we dive into the wormhole.
Ready...
13. There's a means to an end here!
“Tukhchar massacre / Dagestan Beheading Massacre films
Russian soldiers surrendered to extremist forces hoping to become POWs. Unfortunately, they were deceived, and Chechen commander Umar Edilsultanov ordered his soldiers to cut the prisoners’ throats as revenge for his fallen comrades. You’ll get to listen to the cries of young men and their futile efforts to stay alive in these tapes.”
Understanding Digital Trauma
The internet can expose individuals to distressing content that triggers a range of emotional responses. According to research published in the journal Psychological Science, exposure to graphic images can lead to desensitization or increased anxiety, especially in vulnerable populations.
This phenomenon illustrates the importance of digital literacy and emotional regulation. Experts recommend setting boundaries around content consumption and practicing mindfulness techniques to mitigate negative emotional impacts.
12. Definitely consider how you word things.
“So I support schools implementing web security for their kids. One call we received was from a school that had been conducting an engineering class, and they actually asked their students to image search ‘things longer than 6 inches.’ Yeah, don’t Google that unless you have safe search enabled.
I always get a kick out of looking at their keyword block list; some of the things middle school kids search for are hilarious.”
11. WHY!
“There used to be this subreddit called EnoughInternet, which was god-awful.
There were videos of people dying by chainsaws, toothpicks down d***holes, and people cutting off arms.
It really changed me.”
10. Yeah, or just don't commit crimes. Let's do that.
“Anything related to a crime you’re about to commit.”
9. Or Google anything when you're sick. Ever.
“Rate of survival when you get cancer. I found out firsthand.”
8. Lawwwd no!
“Cyclopia human” – I made the mistake after watching Futurama. (One of the characters, Leela, only has one eye).
But human cyclopia is a lethal birth defect and not the cool sci-fi stuff I expected. Seriously: Do not Google it.”
7. I CAN'T!
One year, my mom bought some female relatives nice winter coats, red with black fur trim. She wanted to get matching hand warmers, called muffs.
So she Googled ‘black muffs.’
It did not go well.
6. NO NO NO NO! ALLLLLLL THE NO!
“Google image necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating bacteria).”
5. You absolutely will not.
“Carbuncle
You think you're going to see the cute little blue fox creature from Final Fantasy.
You won’t.”
4. Yeah, just remain off Google when you're sick. Kay, thanks!
“Any symptoms you have.
Trying to figure out what’s wrong with you through Google is the quickest way to freak yourself out.”
3. Intriguing.
“Body farm (it's really not that bad at all, plus it's for scientific purposes).”
2. This honestly freaked me out when I saw the previews...
“The movie ‘Cats’.”
1. Do not Google anyone having sex, period! NOOO!
“Martha Stewart having sex with Gary Busey.”
Is there anything you'd add to this list? Let us know in the comments!
The Psychology of Internet Browsing
From a psychological perspective, the urge to Google certain topics can stem from a mix of curiosity and anxiety.
Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, known for her work on positive psychology, emphasizes that our emotions drive much of our online behavior.
This can lead individuals to seek out information that may not be beneficial, particularly when it comes to distressing or graphic content.
Research indicates that many individuals engage in what is known as 'information avoidance'—a tendency to avoid distressing information to maintain emotional equilibrium.
However, the internet often presents an overwhelming amount of information, making it difficult to discern what to engage with.
This dilemma can lead to unintentional exposure to graphic or traumatic content.
Psychological Analysis
This situation highlights the complexities of human curiosity and the sometimes overwhelming nature of information available online.
It's crucial to approach internet browsing with mindful awareness of one's emotional state to avoid inadvertently exposing oneself to distressing content.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Ultimately, understanding our motivations behind online searches can provide valuable insights into our emotional health.
By recognizing the triggers for harmful browsing behaviors, individuals can make more informed choices about their internet use.
Practicing mindfulness and developing emotional awareness can help mitigate the risks associated with distressing content online.
The Dark Side of Information Overload
In today’s digital age, the internet is filled with information that can evoke strong emotional responses. Psychologists argue that exposure to graphic or disturbing content can lead to heightened anxiety and distress, particularly for sensitive individuals.
Research published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders highlights that frequent exposure to negative information can contribute to chronic stress and a skewed perception of reality.
Understanding the psychological impact of what we consume online is essential for mental well-being. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques can help individuals manage their reactions to distressing content by promoting healthier thought patterns.
Practicing mindfulness and self-regulation strategies can also aid in reducing the emotional toll of information overload, allowing individuals to maintain a balanced perspective.
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
To conclude, navigating the vast landscape of information on the internet requires awareness and intentionality. Research indicates that being selective about what we consume can protect our mental health and foster a more positive outlook.
By employing techniques from mindfulness and cognitive behavioral approaches, individuals can cultivate resilience against the potential negative impacts of online content.
Social media platforms often serve as echo chambers, amplifying anxiety related to current events or global issues. According to Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a happiness researcher, "The constant barrage of distressing news can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety." To combat this, mental health professionals recommend curating news feeds carefully and limiting exposure to distressing content. Dr. Shawn Achor, a positive psychology researcher, emphasizes that "engaging in positive, solution-oriented discussions can help foster resilience in the face of overwhelming information."
Building Healthier Patterns
In navigating the complexities of the digital world, it's crucial to maintain awareness of its psychological effects. Understanding the impact of graphic content and social media can empower individuals to set healthy boundaries.
Practicing emotional regulation techniques and curating one's digital experiences can mitigate anxiety and promote a more balanced engagement with technology. Mental health professionals emphasize that prioritizing psychological well-being in the digital landscape is essential for fostering resilience and maintaining a healthy mindset.
