All social media users have encountered a scuffle between two or more individuals on a virtual outlet. Of course, it’s much easier to voice your opinion and bash the opposition when a screen separates you from the other person. As opposed to a healthy debate, these brawls are the equivalent of two people shouting insults at walls on opposite sides of the same room. Like these people shouting at walls, bickering social media users do not directly and rationally deal with their emotions. It's also just awkward for innocent users within the virtual vicinity. Before a social media user submits a post in a fit of rage, it’s vital that they ask themselves these questions:

1. Is this a mature response?

Here’s a hint: maturity is reflected in word choice and diction. Is there profanity? Are there words with negative connotations? If you wouldn’t want a 10-year-old to witness the savagery in your post, you may need to reevaluate the content of your message.

2. Does this response target the behaviors of a specific person or group?

Hasty generalizations regarding a single person or group are wrong.

No exceptions.

3. What is your goal?

If you aim to humiliate a second party rather than educate them, you need to alter your mindset. After doing so, evaluate whether your post is necessary. If you still believe your input is absolutely essential, attempt to formulate words of constructive criticism.

Warning: this may elicit a prickly response from another user, but a more harsh approach would be several times worse.

4. Will this matter an hour from now? A week from now?

Take a deep breath. Read a book. Raid your refrigerator. Pet your dog. If this post still rattles in your mind, type it up. Then, save it as a draft. Read it over once, twice, three times until either the words hold no meaning or you decide that is appropriate for your intended audience.

5. Would you directly tell the person or group why you are upset with them?

Some of us may be familiar with the term “subtweet” used by Twitter users to describe a post that indirectly addresses the supposed folly of a person or persons. The vagueness of your post emphasizes the fact that you are too willing to conceal yourself behind a screen rather than attempt to alleviate any discomfort or resentment.

These criteria may be obvious, but all of us get caught in a whirlwind of digital passion every once in a while, me included. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to ignore something if it cannot be approached with a rational viewpoint. Also, keep in mind that muting, unsubscribing, unfriending and unfollowing will always be options. For the most part, these are fail-safe measures that prevent conflict from escalating to the point where friendships are ruined and tears are shed.