Why do some threads devolve?

[EmptyBottle]

First up: I'm not looking for accusations, and don't want anyone personally blaming anyone.

I've participated in several threads that eventually get locked (not because of me afaik, tho if my participation was derailing or being harmful, lmk)... what makes a subset of users reply in ways that lead to the thread(s) getting locked?

And more importantly, is there a way of preventing such replies from being as ... intense... so moderation isn't forced to step in and lock the thread? (eg debating the issue, not the person)

I spotted a clue in one previous thread... issues about gender lead to strong replies... however, I've not seen political threads get locked due to argument... which is nice.

 

[SASU-KE]

what makes a subset of users reply in ways that lead to the thread(s) getting locked?

In my experience here, I've seen most threads get locked due to gender wars.When a particular person usually says something about another gender, I have seen vitriolic responses ensue back and forth.

I never engage in these threads. The first thing is, I believe that each person's opinion is formed due to their own life experience and circumstances.They're entitled to it, others should just accept it and not post in that particular thread and try not to get angry over it.

That's just me though.

 

[Pluto]

 

[Forveleth]

Some topics are just charged and all it takes is one comment from a random person to break the dam. As far as prevention, honestly, self-moderation would be the answer but when is that ever going to happen online. People gonna be angry on the internet and will say terrible things. Also, this community full of a lot of emotions so things are going to pop off every once in a while.

I try to avoid commenting on those threads as I tend to be a little opinionated and defensive when it comes to certain topics (read as: I have anger issues) and I do not want to be the one to break down what is sometimes an interesting conversation.

 

[coolcow1289]

SaSu naturally has many users who have trouble managing emotions, myself included. Add in sensitive topics and it makes sense that there will be emotionally charged responses. Many people suffer from interpersonal issues so it makes sense that conversations around gender could be a problem.