Handling Heated Discussions

When a thread gets heated and members become on the verge of personal attacks, and the thread just starts to turn into a warzone, how do you handle it? Do you permanently or temporarily close the thread? Warn the members?

My policy used to be that I would temporarily close the thread for a few days, and then re-open it when I think members have had sufficient time to collect their thoughts and remain cool. I only had to do it once and that was on a board that I no longer have.

 

Thread Bans.

Excellent way to end thread fights. ;D

 

It depends on how many people are slinging mud. But it usually turns out 1 of 3 ways:

thread locked
move to trash can
let the members get after it and sling all the insults and attacks they want. sometimes a little venting is good.

 

I let 'em have at it unless/until they stoop to name-calling and personal attacks. Then I'll issue warnings. If they don't heed them, the thread gets closed til everyone cools down.

 

sometimes the debates remain civil and everyone ends up learning something from two opposing points of view. When they start getting ugly, I'll try posting a conciliatory message giving the best points of each argument and reminding everyone to be respectful. If that doesn't work, the thread gets closed.

 

How often do you guys end up re-opening closed threads?

 

I wouldn't do it; once a thread is closed, that's it. No more discussion.

 

I usually let it fly -- if it gets into threats then that single person is taken care of.