User:Usr c272d4fe-f1f8-4d77-8008-cad6cb81d6cd/proposal
Backseat moderation
Sometimes known as "Mini-modding"
Backseat moderating is the act of engaging in moderator-like behavior while not holding a moderative position, such as maintainer or organizer. This behavior can cause confusion and friction between users, as it undermines the roles of maintainers and could lead to the spread of incorrect information.
To ensure no user gets confused and a respectful constructive environment is maintained, it is important to recognize the boundaries between being a helpful contributor and performing unofficial moderative actions.
Examples of Backseat moderation
Some actions that constitute backseat moderation include:
- Interpreting or enforcing policy: Telling other users what they can or cannot do, or warning them about potential violations as if you're enforcing it without holding a moderative role.
- Offering guidance vs giving commands: It is encouraged to assist other users by offering helpful advice and helping them contribute, however, it’s important not to instruct others on where to post content or how to structure their contributions as if enforcing policies.
- Giving unsolicited warnings or reprimands: Criticizing other users for their actions or edits as if issuing an official warning.
- Interfering with Active Moderation: Providing unsolicited instructions, advice, or commentary on how to handle a situation that a maintainer is already addressing. This can disrupt the process, cause confusion, and undermine the authority of the maintainer.
- Please keep in mind that maintainers collectively discuss how to handle a situation privately to ensure that the actions being taken are appropriate and are within policy. There are very few cases where action is being taken that is not done without the input of other maintainers.
What to do instead
If you encounter behavior that you believe violates wiki policy or guidelines, please take the following steps:
- Report the issue: Utilize communication channels to contact a maintainer to bring the issue to their attention.
- Clarify policy through discussion: If a user seems unaware of a policy, frame your response as a suggestion or reference rather than an order. Use constructive non-accusatory language, such as:
- "I think the guidelines suggests doing [XYZ]."
- "If you're unsure, you might want to check out [link to policy]."
- "@[Active Maintainer], can we have clarification on this?"
- Focus on collaboration, not enforcement: Assume good faith and offer friendly advice and assistance rather than directives and commands. Remember, it's okay to guide other editors, but it's not your responsibility to enforce the rules unless you hold a maintainer position. If you believe something needs moderative enforcement, it’s best to notify a maintainer and let them review the situation.
Why backseat moderation is discouraged
- It creates confusion: Users may receive mixed messages if multiple people attempt to interpret and enforce rules differently.
- It undermines moderators: Maintainers are responsible for ensuring that users follow the guidelines and policy. Bypassing their authority can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings.
- It discourages participation: Harsh or unsolicited enforcement from non-maintainers may intimidate new or inexperienced contributors, discouraging them from continuing to engage.
In short: Please leave moderative duties to maintainers. We understand that this behavior is often well-meaning but it can cause headaches or escalate a situation to become volatile. Instead contact a maintainer through the Discord with your concerns so it can be handled appropriately.
