RE: the question: ":Why do forum interactions become contentious". . .


I've just had a very unexpected and very unpleasant PM from a forum participant. 

He'd been suggesting I buy a certain component  and I told him politely that I didn't visualize that particular purchase fitting in with my long-range plans.  

His response was to accuse me of wasting everyone's time and to call me an "effing idiot" (except he spelled "effing" correctly). 

The great majority of interactions I've had here have been very enjoyable and recent input from
more experienced forum members has helped greatly in clarifying my plan for the next upgrade cycle. 

The thread on lesser-know Jazz has been great-- lots of participation and lots of terrific suggestions. 

Nevertheless, I've decided to take a break. 

Best regards,

Stuartk



stuartk
   It’s about learning how to “read.”  I think everyone here has learned to skip over posts from certain people.  And always carefully  read posts from some others.  
   When a post begins like, “I’ve never heard the two components you ask about, but…”.  There are a lot of posts here which are worse than worthless. 
I tell people “if you want to make GOD laugh tell him your plans.”
Easily the best thing I've heard in a long time.
May I borrow it?

All the best,
Nonoise


If this was real life and not a forum of anonymous names it wouldn't be this way. Lots of forum tough guys here. In person they wouldn't say a word.
Not so sure some of tough guys on social media forums aren't also some of the most argumentative person to person. I've known a number of 'banty roosters' in my life, they'll cut you in person just like they do here. A couple of these guys were/are audiophiles.

Some claim you need to develop thick skin, thick skin types often use consensus bias in interactions, assume others have equally thick skin. Thick skin has fertile ground to grow in, may not even notice over time. Thick skin can turn into suit of armor.
I've never received a nasty PM, or a PM - period - come to think of it.

Where do I sign up?

DeKay