How do you handle an important community member who is causing problems but you don’t want to lose?
Most punishments (removing posts, reprimanding, banning) exacerbate the issue and further alienate the member.
The Situationist offers another option. Ostracize the member. Don’t respond to her comments. Don’t answer her questions. Don’t give her any recognition. If you’re as well connected with your key members as you should be, ask them to do the same.
The best way to maintain cooperation in large groups isn’t to punish members directly, but to work with other community members and ostracize the member until she comes back into line.
Does it take more effort and coordination? Absolutely. But if the member is really worth keeping, then this just might be your only choice.
