Originally Posted by
König
It is interesting. I myself have anxiety about many things in life but never about TSA. I am not a psychologist, but I assume such mental responses exhibited by previous posters (e.g., panick attacks) may arise from catastrophising the encounter with the TSA prior to the actual encounter. Unfortunately, it seems that this sub-forum only "helps" people work themselves up when it comes to dealing with the TSA, thus increasing their anxiety further.
I have long said that this board and certain posters have turned people off the 'anti-TSA' message; numerous people I know and who I find quite intelligent have read here and been turned off by the hyperbole from some posters, as well as the tone. Sometimes the tinfoil hat view of those who are anti-TSA is reinforced by TS&S and some of the more frequent posters.
Having said that, however, I know that for some people panic attacks are a very real situation.
I consider myself rational and post in a measured fashion, but also try and present what may happen to people based on my own experiences. I often say 'hope for the best, but prepare for the worst' and believe that having factual information is important.
But I agree with you that there are some posters here who seem to enjoy fanning flames and posting hyperbole over fact. It's really a shame.