We should not assume the worst when New Members post basic or low-effort or even troll-like questions.
Instead assume it is an individual genuinely seeking assistance. Give them a solid, useful, helpful response. Even if they turn out to be a troll, the quality information you shared could be useful for a legitimate New Member.
If they turn out to be a troll intent on sabotaging the forum, don't keeping rewarding them with you attention.
Do not resort to trolling the trolls.
Report them and they will be swiftly dismissed by MESO admin.
Also this is a good a time as any to remind everyone that the MESO forum is intended as a harm reduction forum. Some don't really understand what harm reduction is about. Maybe MESO could do a better job at explaining.
Here is a good article with recommendations on how to respond to basic or low-effort or troll-like questions on a harm reduction forum:
How to Respond to New Members Asking Basic or Low-Effort Questions on a Harm Reduction Forum
Forums dedicated to harm reduction play a vital role in educating and supporting individuals who may be engaging in risky or potentially harmful practices. When new members join and ask basic or low-effort questions—or even questions that seem troll-like—how the community responds is critical. The goal of harm reduction is not to belittle, attack, or judge but to provide guidance that minimizes risk and encourages safer behavior over time.
Why New Members Deserve a Thoughtful Response
- Assumptions Can Be Harmful
Assuming a new member is a troll or undeserving of help because their question appears basic or low-effort is counterproductive. Not everyone has the same level of knowledge or resources, and some may genuinely not know where to start. Judging them harshly can drive them away from seeking advice altogether, potentially increasing their risk.
- Harm Reduction is Non-Judgmental
At its core, harm reduction is about meeting people where they are—accepting them as they come and helping them make safer choices. This approach requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to educate without condescension or hostility.
- Building a Positive Community Culture
A welcoming and supportive community encourages engagement, learning, and trust. When new members feel safe to ask questions, even if they seem "basic" or "uninformed," they are more likely to stick around and benefit from the collective wisdom of the forum.
How to Respond Effectively
- Assume Good Intentions
Unless a post is explicitly offensive or disruptive, treat it as a genuine request for help. Even if it turns out to be troll-like behavior, responding thoughtfully sets a positive example for other members and reinforces the forum’s values.
- Offer Guidance Without Judgment
Instead of responding with sarcasm or insults, provide concise and constructive advice. For example:
- Unhelpful: “Why don’t you try Googling it? Stop being lazy.”
- Helpful: “This is a common question! Here’s a helpful resource that explains it: [Link].”
- Redirect to Existing Resources
If the question has been asked many times before, kindly point the new member to relevant threads, FAQs, or resources. This approach avoids spoon-feeding while still offering assistance:
- “Great question! We’ve discussed this topic here: [Link]. You might find it helpful to start there.”
- Encourage Research and Self-Education
Gently encourage new members to do more research while remaining supportive:
- “It’s important to learn as much as you can about [topic]. This guide has some great information to get you started: [Link]. Let us know if you have more specific questions!”
- Set the Tone for Civil Discourse
If the question is phrased poorly or seems troll-like, respond with calm professionalism:
- “Your question isn’t very clear, but I think you’re asking about [topic]. Could you provide more details so we can help better?”
- Dealing With Actual Trolls
If it becomes clear that a user is trolling, avoid engaging in arguments. Report the post to moderators and let them handle the situation. Feeding trolls only detracts from the forum’s purpose.
Why This Approach Matters
Attacking or insulting new members for their perceived ignorance or low effort is the opposite of harm reduction. It perpetuates a culture of gatekeeping and hostility that discourages people from seeking help. For those engaging in potentially risky behaviors, this could mean the difference between informed, safer practices and dangerous outcomes.
Harm reduction advocates understand that change is a gradual process. New members may start with limited knowledge or misconceptions, but with patience and guidance, they can learn to make better choices. By fostering a welcoming, non-judgmental environment, the forum fulfills its mission to educate, support, and reduce harm.
A Final Word
Every interaction on a harm reduction forum is an opportunity to make a difference. Treat new members with the same respect and understanding you would hope to receive if you were in their position. By working together to build a positive and supportive community, we can ensure that the forum remains a valuable resource for everyone, regardless of their starting point.
