Kvenching

Kvenching is a term used in contemporary online discourse to describe a pattern of social sanction in which a group or community repeatedly voices grievances about an individual’s behavior in a public, collective manner. It typically involves public callouts, communal commenting, and ritualized reminders of norms, with the goal of correcting behavior or discouraging perceived violations. The term is not standardized and remains a topic of discussion among observers of online culture and moderation practices.

Origins and usage are debated. The coinage appears in late 2010s online discussions, and scholars and commentators have proposed that it blends elements of kvetching (persistent complaining) with mechanisms of social shaming or communal enforcement. In practice, kvenching may occur through pinned posts, forums or thread discussions that summarize alleged transgressions, followed by ongoing reminders or advisories directed at the individual or group involved. It is sometimes framed as a form of informal peer governance within digital communities.

Impact and criticism are prominent in analyses. Proponents argue that controlled kvenching can reinforce community norms and deter harmful behavior when applied consistently and transparently. Critics warn that it can resemble coordinated harassment or dogpiling, disproportionately target marginalized individuals, and suppress legitimate dissent or nuance. Debates continue about when, if ever, kvenching is appropriate and how communities can balance norm enforcement with safety, due process, and respect for individuals.

See also: online moderation, collective shaming, behavioral norms.