Directions: Please read the information below and check the box if you agree to participate in this study.

 

Title: Understanding On-Line Rants.

Investigators: Ryan Martin, Ph.D., Department of Human Development and Psychology, Andrew Blonigen, Kelsey Coyier, Kelly Schroeder, and Leah VanSistine.

Contact Person for Questions/Problems: Ryan Martin, Ph.D. (920-465-2322)

Purpose of Research: This study is being conducted to better understand how and why people express anger via on-line formats.

Procedures: Participation involves reading on-line descriptions of angering incidents/frustrations and completing questionnaires asking about your emotions.  You will also be asked to spend some time writing about something that angers you.  It is important that you follow all written and verbal instructions carefully.  It is anticipated that the entire procedure will take between 30 and 40 minutes to complete.  When you are finished, you will be asked to print your name on a sign-out sheet in order to get credit for the study. 

Benefits: You will earn 3 ERLP points for your participation.  Additionally, it is hoped that this study will contribute to our understanding of certain emotions.

Risks: The risks of participating in this study are minimal.  You will be asked to read some on-line rants that some of you may find offensive.  If you feel that reading these or completing the questionnaires has resulted in emotional distress, please stop and notify the researcher immediately. 

Safeguards: The information you provide is anonymous and will be kept strictly confidential.  Although you are being asked to print your name on a sign-out sheet, this information is for assigning credit only and cannot be linked to you.  Your participation is completely voluntary, and you may withdraw from this study at any time without penalty, prejudice, or loss of benefits. Questions concerning the research should be directed to Ryan Martin at (920) 465-2322. This project and this consent form have been reviewed by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, which ensures that research projects involving human subjects follow federal regulations. Although the primary investigator of this study, Ryan Martin is currently the Chairperson of the Institutional Review Board, he played no role in the evaluation of this project.  Any questions or concerns about your rights as a research subject should be directed to Jill White, acting Chairperson of the Institutional Review Board, (920) 465-2569.