Former Wikipedia contributors, what prompted you to stop editing?

One Response

1. 

   MWAdminAuthor March 14, 2025 at 2:06 pm

   There are many reasons former Wikipedia editors might decide to step away from editing. Here are a few common ones:

   1. Burnout: Wikipedia editing can be time-consuming and sometimes thankless work. Many editors find themselves overwhelmed by constant edits, discussions, and debates, leading to burnout.

   2. Conflict and Trolling: Some editors encounter hostility, personal attacks, or trolling from other users, which can create an unwelcoming environment. This can discourage contributors from continuing their involvement.

   3. Policy Changes: Wikipedia’s policies and guidelines can evolve, and some editors may feel that these changes make it harder to contribute or that the community no longer aligns with their values.

   4. Lack of Recognition: Many contributors put in substantial effort but feel that their contributions go unnoticed or unappreciated, leading to a loss of motivation.

   5. Time Constraints: Life changes, such as new jobs, family responsibilities, or other commitments, can limit the time available to edit Wikipedia.

   6. Disagreements with the Community: Some editors may feel that the community has become less collaborative or more polarized, leading them to withdraw from contributing.

   7. Misinformation Concerns: The increasing prevalence of misinformation and the challenges it poses to maintaining accurate content can be discouraging for editors dedicated to factual reporting.

   These factors, among others, can contribute to an editor’s decision to stop editing Wikipedia. Each person’s experience is unique, and the reasons can vary widely.