Longer suspensions for misbehavior

Search documents
Longer suspensions on platforms like Roblox could help curb bad behavior, new research finds
TechXploreยท 2025-07-03 13:41
Core Viewpoint - A study suggests that longer suspensions for users exhibiting bad behavior on platforms like Roblox can effectively reduce repeat offenses without significantly impacting overall user engagement [2][8][11]. Group 1: Study Findings - The research conducted by Northeastern University and Roblox indicates that longer suspensions not only decrease the likelihood of repeat offenses but also maintain user engagement levels [2][8]. - In experiments involving nearly 800,000 users, longer suspensions (one-day vs. one-hour and three-day vs. one-day) were tested to assess their effectiveness [5][7]. - The results showed that longer suspensions led to a 13% reduction in reoffense rates for first-time violators, while frequent violators only saw a 4% decrease [9]. Group 2: User Engagement - Despite the implementation of longer suspensions, there was minimal impact on the time users spent on Roblox, with a maximum decrease of only 2% [8]. - The study highlights the importance of balancing disciplinary actions with user engagement, suggesting that effective consequences do not necessarily drive users away from the platform [3][10]. Group 3: Implications for Policy - The findings have already influenced Roblox's suspension policies, with hopes that other platforms will adopt similar strategies based on the targeted effectiveness of consequences [11][12]. - The research emphasizes that longer suspensions should be part of a broader strategy that includes proactive and educational measures to achieve more lasting behavioral changes [11].