Question

Will UserX be allowed to explain UserY if UserY does anything wrong... as long as UserX is polite?

Answer 1

There is nothing in the code of conduct against it; however, I have dealt with enough situations where UserX (with the best intentions) made the situation worse by trying to sort it themselves to have a very dim view of this.

It is frustrating to have to resolve a situation which could have worked out more gently with suspensions because someone who meant well made it worse. And it is really, really frustrating when that person goes on 'helping' in case after case - I feel that it makes the site substantially harder to moderate, not easier.

I would prefer UserX to report abuse with a good explanation in the comment field and let the mods deal with it as appropriate.

Answer 2

@blues Yes, I concur, but there are cases when UserX has no other choice.
When UserX feels that something is going wrong but it can't be reported, he should be able to do something. For example: gaming the system.

Answer 3

And why can't gaming the system be reported?

Answer 4

@ParthKohli, when a new User Y is making some mistake that shows they are unfamiliar with the site - like posting answers on their first day, for example - then the more experienced User X can give them some polite guidance.

But when an experienced user Y is gaming the system, it shows that they are plainly aware of the system and trying to cheat. It is in that situation in which a moderator should be called.

I am really intrigued by why you should use precisely the situation in which a moderator should be called (i.e., when attempting to deal with the situation yourself will only make it worse) as the example in which a mod should not be called in.

Answer 5

Thank you, Blues.