I'm glad you raised this Rich, 'cause it's something I've been trying to find the words for for some time now. I've deliberately tried to stay (readily) un-identifiable, despite the immediate urges to post away like mad. I've given away my age, city, orientation, status and not much else.
Posting pictures, video and personal info make it so mush easier and quicker for one to be a recognisable part of a group, and make it easier to tell stories or relate to the stories of others with personal experiences. Conversly, not sharing gives the impression that one might have something to hide.
Self-censoring with anonymity in mind seriously limits what you are able to talk about and share (believe me, I know
). If everyone did it, this place would be far less interesting, but I'm afraid I'm not about to change too much too soon.
I had a bad experience a couple of years ago. It came about by me giving too much away and being a bit too personal on a forum. I should have known better. That's why I'm stand-offish now.
It's not a matter of fear of being "tied to my words", it's a matter of not knowing who you're talking to, and what their motives might be. In my brief time here I don't think I've said anything here that I wouldn't stand by.
I know that the fact remains, that if someone wants to find (out about) me, they could.
The only thing that would cure this type of "stand-offishness" is if everyone here knew each other well enough to trust them with personal info, but that aint gonna happen.
I like it here, the people are great (mostly :p ) and I'd love to share more, but for the moment, it's "once-bitten-twice-shy" for me. We'll see what happens.
So, with that in mind, to answer the original questions - What do I expect? - simply that my position be respected, and that I 'll respect the views of others. Do I believe I have "true anonymity"? Nup! But the cheap copy we've got will do!