Growing up as kids we are told to share our toys and not to be selfish. We also live in an age when discussing our feelings is encouraged. But when does it all become too much? With new trends growing all the time, such as dance challenges and wearing a carpet as a dress, the question is: when can sharing become oversharing on social media?
“Oversharing” has become associated with social media, but it isn’t exclusive to this platform. Imagine you head to a party and meet someone. Within five minutes they have revealed private details about their life. While some of us may try to escape these people, according to marriage advisor Carolyn Cole, this form of oversharing could come from a strong desire to connect with someone. But how does this translate to social media?
Dr. Christopher Hand, a lecturer in cyberpsychology (网络心理学), says the more details people uncover, the less sympathy we express when things go wrong. It seems that searching for sympathy by oversharing is generally considered as negative rather than the cry for help it could really be.
However, Dr. Hand’s research also seems to suggest that the more we post on a platform, the more socially attractive we become-only if the posts that we share are positive. Even back in 2015, Gwendolyn Seidman PhD said that we should avoid complaining and being negative online. We should also avoid showing off, especially about our love lives. It makes sense-if your date is going “that well”, would you really have time to share a photo with text?
So, how can you know if you are oversharing? Well, why not ask your friends in real life. They would probably be happy to tell you if your posts about your breakfast or your complaints about your lack of money really are too much.
7. What does the underlined word “exclusive” in paragraph 2 mean?
A.Unique. | B.Similar. | C.Relevant | D.Distinct. |
8. Why do some people prefer oversharing at parties?
A.To draw others’ attention. | B.To satisfy others’ curiosity. |
C.To remove negative feelings. | D.To develop good relationships. |
9. Which of the following may Dr. Hand agree with?
A.Sharing more details online can attract more sympathy. |
B.Oversharing negative experiences is equal to crying for help. |
C.Oversharing isn’t likely to happen online when things go wrong. |
D.Sharing negative posts can’t help one become socially attractive. |
10. According to the text, what should be avoided for online sharing?
A.Reflecting on past bad manners. | B.Showing a great many expensive goods. |
C.Writing a recipe for a balanced breakfast. | D.Recording unforgettable moments with friends. |