When radio was still a thing, shock jocks ruled the airwaves. These were provocative hosts known for exaggeration and aimed to offend. It’s how they got noticed and improved ratings.

Of course, radio is hardly what it was but the formula for attention remains the same: say anything you want for ratings – or clicks.

Which is exactly what websites do today. And you’ll find no better example than this post at What To Expect’s site. Here the commenter – yellow01 – poses a situation that shouldn’t be up for discussion: “Letting dad take baby alone to his parents house.”

Yellow01’s thoughts radiate a sexist, demeaning and controlling vibe:

• “…I still don’t feel comfortable going out alone and leaving baby” (with dad, implied)
• “…I said you’re not taking him alone anywhere till he’s older”
• “…I don’t trust anyone but my mom”
• “…I never said his parents couldn’t see the baby I just said no to him taking him alone”

There’s no point in arguing the unacceptable nature of these comments. We all know they’re off the mark, as validated by the numerous commenters who politely suggest yellow01 is out of line.

What’s equally wrong is how What To Expect allowed this post to appear in the first place. Every forum has a moderator, and permitting this one to go live is like letting a shock jock’s poorly trained tongue say anything in the name of ratings.

But as you can imagine, What To Expect absolves itself from any offense with the convenient disclaimer, “The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of What to Expect” (plus the handy omission that it may make commissions from links on that page).

It’s all evocative of the adage, just because you can say something doesn’t mean you should.

For most shock jocks, things don’t end well. As they push the envelope of decency, they show a lack of regard for others. Many have been fired, censored, created social outrage, or caused their employers to be fined.

They’re the equivalent of tabloid newspapers, and we know how those are regarded in society.

Dads deserve better. Show empathy.