This somewhat misleadingly-named tag is an indicator of how open one is in real life about one's online persona, where there is a difference between that and one's 'real self'. As such, it bears a relationship to the Reality Index, though possibly a confused one, since it hinges very strongly on what definition of 'real self' one is using.

For example, although Wyrm's site notes that “those who are human on-line, or otherwise are what they say they are in real life, can omit this tag!”, one wonders how that intersects with a Reality Index of R+++ or R+++!; someone who considers themselves a dragon in real life, and also uses that identity online, might not be obviously so to family, friends and acquaintances, and might well might feel inclined, or even obligated, to hide that aspect of themselves. The traditional descriptions given below in italics hint very strongly that the used of 'real self' here refers to the one that is seen, rather than (as with the Reality Index) the one that is someone's identity.

I have made a determined effort to advertise the fact that I'm not a human. My close friends have got used to explaining me to strangers to save them time. I'm so militant about my true identity that even the men in white coats were impressed!

My friends' parents all know. I use my on-line name in front of total strangers regularly. I've received letter from people I've never met asking questions about how to deal with being non-human.

All of my friends know. I told my parents instead of waiting for them to find out. The local cybercafé's manager calls me by my on-line name.

Most of my friends know. I'd tell my parents if I thought they'd take it well. I've used my on-line name in public on occasion.

A few of my friends know. I'm glad my parents have never asked me about this. I'm rather low-key but don't dodge the subject.

I don't want to be thought crazy in human life. If the subject came up, I'd tell my closest friends only.

It's something that would make me rather uncomfortable to have let out. I'm open on-line but try to keep my human side untraceable, and vice versa.

I've e-mailed only a few kindred souls I think I can trust, not telling them anything about my human life, naturally. There are great advantages to my continued silence.

No on knows, period. I live in fear that my intolerant neighbours, colleagues, or relatives will turn me over to the Thought Police! I post only under condition of anonymity. I'm going out on a limb even assembling my Dragon Code!