Some research shows that people with more to lose may be more likely to engage in "risky, socially unacceptable and self-destructive behavior," according to a New York Times article by Catherine Rampbell. That would explain the rash of politicians caught up in sex scandals. I remember thinking how stupid Gary Hart was to challenge the media to catch him, which of course they did, in the late 1980s. What are they thinking?
It's just getting worse. First he sends crotch shots via Twitter then he takes a press tour to lie about it, suggesting his computer was hacked.
Only after evidence is produced, he admits to sending the photos.
Now, it turns out he has sent X-rated photos (presumably the wiener sans boxers).
But the good news is he and his wife are receiving PR counsel from the Clintons.
So what have we learned?
1) Don't send explicit photos over the Internet to anyone - ever.Especially if you're an elected official holding a national office.
2) Pay attention to the news. Your fellow congressman resigned over emailing a picture of his bare chest!
3) Don't lie to the media. It irritates them and inspires them to dig harder. If you do lie, go all the way. Don't insist you didn't send the photo and refuse to answer the question: "Was that your crotch?" Prevarication raises more questions. "So, Mr. Weiner, how long have you been photographing your boxers. And why exactly?
5) Confess your sins and take the hit.
6) Consider another line of work. Underwear model, perhaps.
One definition of public relations is "good behavior, well communicated." Yeah, that good behavior thing can be a problem.
