Humans are inherently sociable creatures. We love to share stories and experiences so that other people can gain insights on what is happening in our lives. Some would do it by bragging or showing off what they are capable of, while others do it for the sake of gaining attention. It has also come to a point where one’s problems, mostly relationship issues, are shared with the mainstream community. We hear a lot of stories called in by avid listeners over the radio to obtain advice and support from others and the person who is hosting the radio talk show. Is this even acceptable? What are the benefits or complications that a person can endure if they want to open their personal life to a radio talk show? “More fundamentally, we enjoy the sense of personal connection that radio offers.”, says Peter D. Kramer, a psychiatrist.
Is This Even Acceptable?
Have you ever watched the movie Sleepless in Seattle? This is a perfect example of a radio talk show helping people with their relationship problems. I will not go into details on how the movie went, but I would like to point out that it is a reasonable manner to ask for advice on matters of the heart in any radio talk show provided that it is hosted and delivered by a life coach or someone with a background in psychology. Some DJs are also capable of giving practical advice, and this is also acceptable. Remember, the number one reason why people are eager to call and share their problems is that they are in dire need of someone to listen to them. Sometimes, what matters most is the listening aspect and for the person to unburden his/her psychological conflicts. Dr. Hankin, a psychotherapist, says such psychological quick fixes from radio talk shows can be therapeutically valid, within reason. “I think it can have a lot of value if the people doing it are competent,” she says. “It can be quite useful to people who are not deeply troubled. Certainly the demand is there.”
Confidentiality Issues
Unlike the Facebook or other social media platform, there is a specific limitation on how you want others to see your profile or media posts. A Facebook user, for example, can control his privacy settings to ensure that only preferred friends and connections are allowed or not allowed to view the posts. When you share your personal experience over the radio, this will be broadcasted throughout the airwaves, and the probability of going public and be known by the majority who listens to the radio station will know your situation. Of course, your identity will be protected by giving an alternative name or alias. However, the similar circumstances of your story can trigger a familiar note to other people who are involved in the experience, and they too will be dragged into the limelight. It is essential that the other person’s identity is protected and not divulged in any way while you are telling your version of the story.
What To Expect After Making The Call?
I should say that while on air, the person sharing the story is not just aware of the listeners’ reactions and feedbacks they are giving while this person continues to narrate their experience. Some would side the caller while others will provide negative comments and even blame the person. So, you will have the best of both worlds. In some radio programs, they have some real-time reactions from their listeners such a Tweet or comment on Facebook. The radio host will then read it aloud so that the person will know what the others think of the problem. Some listeners give pieces of advice especially if they have the same experience as the caller.
Radio show programs are another media that can provide psychological help to those who needs it. It’s an unconventional way however the benefits are the same or comparable to a formal or office setting of getting mental help. Nonetheless, one should consider that by sharing your problems on air, there is a significant possibility that privacy issues are compromised, and you should be prepared for any consequences it may bring. “The first step is to look at yourself and determine what it is you need,” Dr. Howes , a clinical psychologist, says. “Ask yourself, Am I the sort of person who benefits from someone who tells me what to do? Or do I need someone with a good ability to listen and who will talk through things with me?” But then again, those who are listening will know your deepest issues.