Instagram Follow and Block Etiquette: Accepting Requests and Then Blocking

Instagram is a platform renowned for its vibrant and engaging social media experience. However, with the myriad interactions that can occur, a common question arises: Would it be considered rude to accept someone's follow request but then block them shortly after?

Accepting Follow Requests Before Investigation

Is it truly necessary to investigate the history and content of a person before accepting their follow request? Some users find themselves in a constant cycle of rejecting and accepting followers based on what they find. Others avoid accepting requests altogether due to the potential for unwanted interactions.

One user, for example, cannot surpass 100 followers. Why? Every week, they have to reject all those who have followed them. The rationale? After taking the time to look into their history, the content is deemed either inappropriate or offensive. This user chooses not to block, as they believe there might be a chance of attracting trolls or other unwanted interactions.

Accepting Follow Requests and Later Blocking

Is it considered rude to accept someone's follow request but then later block them? The answer can vary depending on the context and the reasons for blocking.

From an ethical standpoint, if the person accepting the follow request does not know or care about the other person, then there is no harm in blocking them. Blocking in this case is a matter of personal boundaries and privacy. If the person accepts the request and then later blocks the person, it can be seen as a violation of trust and congeniality.

On the other hand, if the person has interacted with the other user before, or they have had some form of engagement such as conversations or direct messages (DMs), it might be more tactful to communicate the reasons for blocking. If the person has done something offensive or inappropriate, a call for transparency might be necessary. However, a sudden block without any prior notice or explanation can indeed be perceived as rude and unwelcoming.

Understanding Perceived Rudeness in Online Interactions

Online interactions can be complex due to the invisible nature of digital engagement. What might seem natural for one person can be considered impolite by another. Here are a few scenarios to consider:

Accommodation of Privacy: If the person who follows is private about their content and does not wish to share details in public, blocking them does not necessarily constitute rudeness, as long as the approach is not aggressive or hostile. Prevented Engagement: Once a follow request is accepted, there is an implied consent to engage in some form of social interaction. This interaction can be a conversation, comments, or other forms of connection. Blocking can be seen as breaking this trust if done prematurely. Confirming Intentions: If the person who follows has a negative intent, such as spamming or engaging in hostile behavior, it is understandable to block them. However, a polite explanation can set the record straight and possibly prevent future misunderstandings.

Key Takeaways for Instagram Etiquette

While there is no hard and fast rule, here are some guidelines for handling follow and block requests on Instagram:

Consider the history and content of the person before accepting a follow request. If you accept a follow request, ensure you are comfortable with the level of engagement and potential interactions. Communicate your reasons for blocking if you must. Being transparent and polite can help maintain respect and good will.

In conclusion, whether accepting and then blocking someone on Instagram is rude depends largely on the context and the individual circumstances. By understanding and respecting the boundaries of online interactions, both users can maintain a positive and healthy social media experience.