12 months ago
WASHINGTON (WUSA)- From cell phones and texting to computers and twitter, communication via the internet is universal but the ether etiquette rules are still undefined.
So it's no wonder reactions to a new e-card service range from appalled to delighted. The service allows people to anonymously advise previous hookups and former lovers to get tested for an STD. The website inspot.org sends the message for the user, than directs the recipient to the nearest testing center.
"It's not surprising," said Craig Stone, 25, "Because with technology today, you can do something more impersonally. you don't have to see someone face to face to say something to them. You can sort of hit and run. You can say 'oh by the way I've got a problem.'"
When that problem is a sexually transmitted disease, some have issues with the way the message gets sent, but experts say it is clearly a sign of contemporary communication.
"We've learned that with technology in general we can control the amount of contact we have with another person," said Naomi Baron, a linguistics professor at American University. "We used to say you're going to have to see someone face to face if you're going to fire them or break up with them."
Baron said if we have a tool that helps us avoid that personal meeting, we choose it.
More than 750 people visit the website daily and more than 30,000 people have used it to get the word out to their former "hook ups." Sex education and awareness experts say it's a positive step in making sure people get tested.
The website, founded by San Francisco's Health Department provides a statement upfront:
"Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are more common than you know. In the U.S. alone, there are 15 million new cases each year. Talking to your sex partners, even virtually, helps take away the stigma associated with STDs. AND it's scientifically proven to reduce transmission."
