The Contrast Effect occurs when individuals perceive something as better or worse depending on what it is compared to. In online communities, this can affect how users evaluate posts, profiles, or content based on their relative quality to surrounding content. For forum managers, being aware of this effect helps in structuring content presentation to enhance user engagement.
Highlighting top-quality posts, for example, can make mediocre ones seem less appealing but might also set a high standard that motivates contributors to improve. It’s a balancing act—curating content strategically without discouraging participation.
In a photography forum, placing high-resolution, professional images alongside amateur submissions could motivate users to refine their skills, but it might also dishearten new contributors. A solution is to create separate categories for beginners and advanced users, reducing direct contrast while fostering a growth mindset.