Reply to Is it just me or are people on this board getting really mean?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Given the number of similar posts clustering within a narrow time range, I suspect it's a small minority that are trying to change the[b] norms of the forum[/b].[/quote]

Maybe you should instruct them on what the "norms" are.  Is it written down somewhere?[/quote]

I'm sorry you feel the need or have the desire to be so snarky. [b] People have been quite clear on what the norms of this forum are.[/b]  Given the challenges in our lives, it's been nice to have a place to let my guard down and find support with people who face similar issues, worries, concerns and judgments.  That doesn't mean we always agree with each other but at least differing opinions were expressed and recieved respectfully.  If you feel you have been respectful, I would encourage you to look at how others perceive your comments.  This may not be the right forum for you.[/quote]

I wasn't being snarky.  It's a valid question to ask what the "standard of politeness" is especially since OP felt the need to post examples of what is polite, impolite and verges on impolite.  You cannot judge "tone" from internet posts or have control of how others perceive posts.  Apparently you and OP feel that only "butterflies and sunshine" posts belong here and feel you can control an anon forum.  Well, start your own then.  Your last sentence telling me, "This may not be the right forum for you." is telling and very mean.  Like who are you to tell another SN parent whether they belong here or not.[/quote]

I started out preparing a detailed response but through the writing process, I realized this discussion really boils down to the following point.

What is your purpose in coming to the SN forum?

Support and assistance are the defining characteristics of this forum and distinguish us from the other forums.  To do that, communication needs to be effective, particularly if you are in disagreement with something that was posted.  You most certainly can judge tone and politeness in posts.  We do it all the time in the workplace and in our personal correspondence.  If you’re honest with yourself, you can see why those posts are viewed as rude/snarky for this forum. They’re more typical of General Parenting where the desire to help is often lacking and people don’t undertake the self-editing needed to write in such a way to avoid an emotional response (a goad).  The SN forum isn’t about goading or provoking people.  It’s to provide support and assistance.  That doesn’t mean you always agree with a post but if you truly want someone to consider a differing viewpoint, you need to avoid provoking an emotional response.  That doesn't mean 'butterflies and sunshine', it can be brusque or to the point, but it shouldn't be provocative.  You want to generate consideration, not emotion. That is, if you are truly interested in helping.

[b]That you fail to see this makes me question why you come to the SN forum and if it's right for you. [/b] That’s not mean (or bullying), that’s the natural consequence of poor behavior.  People don't want you around if you're not contributing in a positive manner.  I hope the incivility of this forum doesn’t continue to increase.  I want the support/assistance the forum has offered me over the last decade and I have a lot to contribute.  I believe the vast majority of the community in the SN forum agrees.  Until the last 6 months or so, the norm of this community has been civility so that we can effectively support and assist one another – whether or not we agree with each other.
[/quote]

Well, you should start your own forum...  then you can ban whoever you like.[/quote]

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