Is that private note from: Concerned About Conflict at Democratic Underground?real?

[southernleftylady]

Just wondering if that private note I got in my inbox is a 'real' legit item or some kind of fishing? thanks!

[liberalmuse]

1. You mean this?

Hi there! Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University are conducting a survey investigating attitudes about interpersonal relations and conflict at politically-oriented websites. You have been invited to participate because you are a contributing member of Democratic Underground. Results of this survey may help social researchers and website designers make virtual forums like DU more productive, harmonious places. And your participation will contribute to science!

If you are willing to participate, our questionnaire will ask about your background (e.g., age, gender, participation levels at Democratic Underground, political orientation), as well as your perception of relationships at Democratic Underground. The survey will take about 15-20 minutes to complete.

There are no foreseeable risks associated with this project, nor are there any direct benefits to you. You will receive no compensation for your participation in this study. This is an entirely anonymous survey, and your responses will not be identifiable in any way. All responses are confidential, and your results will be kept under lock and key. Your participation is voluntary.

If you have any questions about this project, you may contact the researchers at [e-mail] . And thanks for helping with this important study!

NOTE: The administrators of Democratic Underground are aware of the nature of our research and have given us permission to recruit participants for this study via PMs. If you have questions or concerns about this work, please contact the researchers at the above address before writing Skinner or EarlG (who are very busy during this election season). Thanks!

If you wish to participate in this study AND you are at least 18 years old, please click HERE

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=feNC2xS8Kx_2fwLVh...

[southernleftylady]

3. yeah that nt

[liberalmuse]

4. I agree with another poster here that anyone concerned should email Skinner.

I'm a little wary of stuff like this, but if Skinner says it's legit, then I'll take his word for it.

[shadowknows69]

6. I emailed skinner, no response yet

I wouldn't click on anything.

[Ellipsis]

8. It's aproved by skinner.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=7691634&mesg_id=7696030

[shadowknows69]

10. I'm waiting on my email from him

Thanks anyway.

[Mojorabbit]

2. Someone else posted

about getting one of those yesterday. I'd ask Skinner. It seems weird to me that he would not have notified DU.

[likesmountains 52]

5. I got that too..but it didn't show up in my in box in MY DU, or did I get a email

notification so I just ignored it..

[ColbertWatcher]

11. I didn't get one either! Why was I left out!? Bastards. n/t

[Azlady]

7. I received this as well,

been interested to see if there will be a pinned thread by the Mods stating one way or the other about this message.

[TKolmsi]

9. Seems like a fascinating concept

for a study.

[cwydro]

12. I got one too. nt

[uppityperson]

13. Here is Skinner's ok, link and post...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=7691634&mesg_id=7697528
Skinner ADMIN (1000+ posts) Journal Click to send private message to this author Click to view this author's profile Click to add this author to your buddy list Click to add this author to your Ignore list Sat Nov-01-08 01:51 PM
Response to Original message
21. Yes, I gave them permission to solicit participants for a research project. Updated at 2:22 PM

I might have chosen a different title for the PM, but yes it is legit.