Beyond the Surface

Abstract

This study uses the online disinhibition effect as a theoretical framework for understanding disclosures of ADHD on non-anonymous (Facebook) and anonymous (Reddit) channels. Specifically, a quantitative content analysis compared public Facebook and Reddit posts in terms of disclosure depth. Posts were coded as either peripheral, intermediate, or core disclosures. In this context, the results aligned with the online disinhibition effect; Reddit had greater disclosure and depth of disclosure compared to those on Facebook. The implications of this study demonstrate how self-disclosure depth varies within understudied groups (i.e., individuals posting on ADHD threads) in online contexts. This study also adds to prior research by examining anonymity on multiple channels.