To think that "Send them a link to this thread" is usually monstrously bad advice?

[BOF]

I've seen this suggested several times recently, usually on threads where the OP is complaining about somebody. If the OP hasn't namechanged, then their RL nemesis will basically be able to do a search of their name and find out all about their piles and/or husband's affair, and even if they have posted under a new name, presumably the person in real life will be able to identify exactly who has been slagging them off to all and sundry on a public forum?

Has anybody ever done this and found that it was at all useful? Just wondering really.

I've thought the same as you, BOF , but I always thought it was said tongue in cheek, not seriously.

I've even seen it suggested to OPs who are having relationship difficulties with their partners! Like an abusive bloke is going to reform because a bunch of strangers think he's being a wanker .

Bravo BOF, that thread title just made me pap

It really is truly terrible advice though isn't it!

You sometimes see it suggested to print off a thread "to show your GP" too. I can't see them having too much patience with that either, mostly.

Surely this is not advice that anyone is supposed to take seriously, it's just a tongue in cheek way of saying that YANBU as there is a general consensus that YOU are the one in the right.

I know, I always envisage my doctor's raised eyebrows as I hand him 400 pages of comments. "See doctor," I'd say, "theperfectlyroundedtush says I'm on the wrong medication."

Arf at some poor GP reading though an MN thread and nodding along sagely!

Imperial

You'd think that, JustForLaughs, but I've seen it said in all seriousness.

Imperial

I kind of get what people are saying when they suggest it for someone who is struggling with a mental illness, things are easier to write than to say. But I always assumed they meant just printing off the OP's bits, not 693 posts!

I think all too often it is serious, and don't forget it is not rare to see, 'well I've shown dh/dm/my boss thi thread and they still don't agree/see my pov.

You don't say.

I think people love imagining the drama that would ensue, but I bet they wouldn't enjoy it for a second if it was their own posting history up for exposure.

I hope no one admits to having actually printed off a thread and shown it to someone as proof that they were right!!.

I thought the GP advice was meant as printing off the OP so its easier to explain to the Dr. Not bad advice to write down the problem if you're nervous/depressed/not coping.

Apart from that I agree its pretty rubbish advice.