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About

Ethics & Transparency

How we create content, protect users, and maintain trust.

Our Ethical Commitments

This site deals with sensitive topics that affect real people in vulnerable situations. We take our ethical responsibilities seriously.

Do No Harm

Every piece of content is reviewed to ensure it doesn't encourage unsafe actions, escalate dangerous situations, or provide information that could be weaponized in relationships.

Protect Privacy

We don't collect personal stories. We don't require accounts. We don't track users. This site contains no user-submitted content, testimonials, or identifying information.

Stay in Our Lane

We provide education, not therapy. We're clear about our limitations and consistently direct users to appropriate professional help when needed.

Avoid Weaponization

Our content is designed to help people recognize and escape harm—not to provide ammunition for abuse. We're mindful that any resource can be misused.

Content Standards

What We Include

  • Evidence-based information from reputable sources (academic research, government agencies, established nonprofits)
  • Plain-language explanations that make complex topics accessible
  • Practical tools with clear instructions and examples
  • Clear disclaimers on every page noting limitations
  • Updated citations with links to original sources

What We Avoid

  • Diagnostic labels (narcissist, BPD, sociopath, etc.) that pathologize individuals
  • Victim/abuser binaries that oversimplify complex situations
  • Gender-war framing that pits men against women
  • Personal stories or testimonials that could identify or trigger vulnerable readers
  • Medical or legal advice that should come from licensed professionals
  • Crisis intervention that requires trained counselors
Important
Why No Labels? Terms like "narcissist" are often misused online and can prevent people from seeing nuance in their situations. We focus on observable patterns and behaviors instead—things anyone can identify without a psychology degree.

Language Principles

Instead of: "Your abuser"
We say: "This behavior" or "this pattern"
Instead of: "They're a narcissist"
We say: "This pattern of behavior"
Instead of: "You need to leave"
We say: "Here are your options"
Instead of: "This is abuse"
We say: "This pattern can indicate abuse"
Instead of: "You're a victim"
We say: "You're experiencing this pattern"

This careful language isn't about minimizing harm—it's about empowering readers to draw their own conclusions and make their own decisions.

Safety Considerations

For Users at Risk

We recognize that some visitors may be in monitored or controlled situations. Our site includes:

  • Safety banners with emergency resources
  • Digital safety guidance (browser history, device security)
  • Reminders that leaving can be the most dangerous time
  • No login requirements or personal data collection

Content Warnings

Some content may be difficult to read. We use callout boxes to flag:

  • Sections that describe specific abuse patterns
  • Information that could be triggering for trauma survivors
  • Situations that require professional intervention

Age-Appropriate Content

Our children's section is written specifically for young audiences with:

  • Simplified language and concepts
  • Reassuring tone
  • Age-specific coping strategies
  • Clear "talk to a trusted adult" messaging

Editorial Process

1

Research

Content begins with review of current, reputable sources including peer-reviewed research, government agencies, and established organizations.

2

Drafting

Information is synthesized into plain-language content following our language principles and safety guidelines.

3

Safety Review

Content is reviewed for potential harm, weaponization risks, and appropriate disclaimers.

4

Publication

Final content includes citations, last-updated dates, and appropriate safety callouts.

5

Ongoing Review

Content is periodically reviewed to ensure accuracy and updated as new research emerges.

Accountability

Corrections

If we publish incorrect or outdated information, we will:

  • Correct the error promptly
  • Note the correction with date
  • Update citations as needed

Feedback

We welcome feedback from:

  • Subject matter experts who identify areas for improvement
  • Users who find content unclear or unhelpful
  • Organizations working in related fields

Contact

For corrections, feedback, or concerns about content, contact us at ethics@manopause.info.

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