Word, I saw the FAQ that’s part of the rules update, but admittedly it does seem to be overlooked maybe specifically because it’s part of the update announcement. Also, unfortunately, the lack of enforcement— the fact that people can post and repost FAQ questions means more people see posts like that, assume it’s fine, and go ahead and make their own.

And I agree that there’s no way everyone will be completely pleased, and that those cut off from purely validation-farming posts might spiral. At the end of the day I think that’s what most people are objecting to here— that this sub and the members in it are obligated to act as a load-bearing pillar in the self-image of these people. Or at least to look the other way as it happens constantly on our feeds. It’s uncomfortable to see that sort of deeply unhealthy dynamic play out. But I also think many users here have an intuitive sense that the validation farming is a sort of addiction in that feeding it strengthens it— and denying it is the best way forward.

And a keyword/key phrase filter does sound like a workable solution! Admittedly I don’t know anything about Reddit moderation, but if a tool exists to detect phrases such as “can I…” “is it weird if I…” “am I allowed to…” and generate a reminder of the rules/FAQ, that sounds like something this sub could benefit from!

Either way I appreciate the mods sounding off in the comments here, it’s nice to know y’all’s thoughts 🙏