Standards of Conduct

Standards of Conduct

When posting to group items, members will abide by the Group's standards of conduct.

We have ten standards, but the quck summary is be kind, be respectful, be helpful, and don't be a jerk.

1. Treat others as you wish to be treated. First of all, this means be kind, be patient, and show empathy. It means be honest as well, but also be respectful. It also means to follow Writing.Com rules and, in particular, the rules on ratings. This forum is rated "E," so your posts should conform to that Writing.Com standard.

2. The forum is a "brave place," where people are free to express thier views. It's also a "safe place" where people can be their authentic selves.

3. Assume the best in each other. Recognize the difference between intent and impact. Get clarification before assuming what another person meant or intended. Reflect before pressing enter on any forum post, review, or email. Don't respond in the heat of the moment.

4. Interact with others actively, with openness, and with empathy. Recognize that we are all here to learn and grow, including learning from each other.

5. Value diverse perspectives. In most things there is more than one valid truth. Give others space to express their views. Seek out others with different points of view.

6. Be aware of your own biases, check your blind spots, and be mindful that we all have different experiences that inform our points of view.

7. Do not personalize disagreements. Obviously, this means no name-calling, but it also means using "I" statements and avoiding "You" statements. It's certainly okay to disagree with the substance of what someone is saying, but it's not okay to make demaining personal comments.

8. Work collaboratively and show support to others.

9. Be your authentic self and give space to others so they can do the same. Giving space means that everyone enters the forum on an equal basis, without regard to gender, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, or status as a veteran.

10. Strive to diffuse tense situations. Do not meet incivility with more incivility. Do not let hurt feelings linger. In any discussion, disagreements are both inevitable and healthy, but they should be resolved amicably and directly. Resolution doesn't mean winning or losing but can consist of agreeing to disagree.