Setting a Standard of Civility

**WildChild** · 05-10-2011 08:35 AM

One of the challenges of moderating is that it is often a judgement call. It isn't always clear cut, although we've had some that were VERY clear cut. This is why we are so very careful in our choice of moderators. Sometimes we let a few things slide by and then see that we've got a give an inch and someone thinks they can take a mile situation going.

I'm sure we've all seen sites where people rip each other to shreds on a regular basis and escalation is the norm. We aren't that kind of site. Through television, movies and other media we have developed a high tolerance for some pretty ugly behavior and it's a balancing act to be realistic in our expectations for our members. What is perfectly acceptable to one person may be abhorrent to another, we can't please everyone and we are not going for the lowest common denominator. We want to support and help each other and have some fun but with a certain level of decorum. I can get down and dirty but I recognize that while it can be a fun place to visit, it isn't a good place to live and it isn't this forum's place. There are plenty of those, part of what sets us apart in my perception is that we can have fun in a respectful way.

Bottom line, the moderators are human and not everyone is going to agree with every decision we make. But we truly make a effort to maintain a good balance, to be fair and to stay on top of things. We do this as volunteers because we see the value in this site and want to see it stay a safe and fun harbor.

**WildChild** · 05-10-2011 08:36 AM

Originally Posted by spurzzz

Aww thanks Mom

I actually didn't know about the spam button lol

And I have just noticed the reputation button too......yowzaaaa

*wonders if he can rep himself*

LOL I don't know if you can rep yourself but we do get people who report themselves.

**spurzzz** · 05-10-2011 09:17 AM

I can get down and dirty but I recognize that while it can be a fun place to visit, it isn't a good place to live

Ermmmmm

No comment *grins*

LOL I don't know if you can rep yourself but we do get people who report themselves.

Wow, now that is funny yet intriguing. Is that primarily through mistake or by feeling guilty about their behaviour?

I remember I once posted a joke, which people found funny but I immediately told CW to remove it because I knew it was breaking the rules....

**LanaBear** · 05-10-2011 10:50 AM

Originally Posted by spurzzz

Wow, now that is funny yet intriguing. Is that primarily through mistake or by feeling guilty about their behaviour?

Generally the tools who report themselves are wanting us to ban them. Some just don't want to participate anymore and feel that everyone would be more comfortable with them being "banned", some are trolls who are just trying to stir the pot. Posting something inappropriate, then reporting themselves saying that we play favorites, yada yada.

**Seeker_Advice** · 05-11-2011 12:57 PM

It's always better to make an error when trying, then to make an error out of not trying.

To your point WC, I'd rather see you make a judgement call, on what's acceptable/not acceptable, and delete a thread/post or author than sit by and do nothing out of your concern for making the right call.

When in doubt, delete or ban it out!