when did this site become a problem page?

[5029]

anyone else concerned about the number of 'personal' problems appearing lately? It is becoming less and less like what it used to be, and more and more a forum for personal advice! Surely there's a more relevant website around somewhere that we could re-direct them to?

[brawburd]

It's a question and answer site! If the question and answer is about a personal problem surely that's as valid as anything else?

[robber1]

Not concerned at all, in fact a question about a serious personal problem must be preferable to some of the trivia.

[iwbus]

I'm more concerned about the number of stupid questions, especially stuff about Michael Aspel a million people asking what the song is from the Lynx ad. Is one answer not enough?

[Quizmonster]

I can see 5029's point, though I also agree with Brawburd that - if people feel they have to ask advice here - they should not be actively prevented. However, there does seem lately to have been a spate of really quite serious medical and personal problems aired and advice upon them asked for. I think we, as answerers, should consider how valid any response we make might be.

Personally, I think only doctors should answer serious medical questions and psychologists mental ones. In other words, AnswerBank is not the place for them to be asked. On the other hand, if someone just wants recommendations as to the best cream for acne, offering advice that worked for you is fine. It's a matter of degree...in more senses than one!

[woofgang]

QM you have a point. We should only be answering questions where we have knowledge or experience that could be helpful and we should be VERY carefuI about giving ANY kind of advice. I have some experience in the medical and psychological field but am not a doctor, although I am qualified in my own profession. Where I can give advice that I know is correct and hope will be helpful, then I am happy to do so.I would hope that people giving DIY advice for instance would do the same!!! If people don't want to be involved in other people's physical, psychological or personal issues, then they can do what i do with the michael aspel/mariah carey dross and ignore it

[robber1]

Quizmonster and woofgang are quite correct of course, but I presume when a health question is asked, it is like asking a support group for feedback. Just as an example, I am a paraplegic and if a user had just had an accident and was also a paraplegic, I could give advise and help on certain matters which could assist them in daily living. I am not a doctor and could NOT give medical advice, but my 30 years experience of living with it would greatly benefit someone else. Its the same ass someone asking a Q about mortgages. Other peoples experiences help to form our own opinions.

[Dsg]

Dear 5029, If you are concerned about the number of "personal problems" appearing lately - don't worry - it is perfectly natural. A lot of people at your time of life experience similar feelings and there are numerous self-help groups available. The main thing is not to deny the way you feel - take ownership of your views and continue to share them.

[woofgang]

***** for dsg's answer ;-))

[smudge]

Yes 5029, I agree to a degree. You only have to look at DaveM's 'Erm - Kinda Embarrassing' question under this category, to know that some people just don't know how far they should go & what I think is TOO personal!

[woofgang]

robber1, I certainly would put you into the helpful knowledge and experience category and that's what I meant. there is a wealth of very valid resource here and I think that by and large, we do answer responsibly

[dustybin]

I find the personal/medical problems as interesting as the more academic ones. But then I am very broad minded. A question is a question - didn't know this site was into censorship.

[marylou2]

Try telling the AB Ed that!

[smudge]

Thanks 5029, glad some of us share the same sentiments on this one. Please take a look at my reply under: 'kudos AB eds' under this category. I can't be bothered to type it out again. Cheers Smudge.

[woofgang]

can't, it got wiped!!