User blog comment:IvyLover/How to give users infinite blocks./@comment-452-20141013015032/@comment-4568327-20141013150905

I have never blocked someone indefinitely for a first offense. That is simply immature. In most forums and websites, a temporary block or ban is issued as a first offensive, often used after a number of warnings. I warn users before I take out the block button, as it's easier to just have the user leave peacefully than it is to use brute technical force. Also, I am very aware that blocks can and do affect innocent users, especially when applied to IP addresses. It's a very common mistake for admins to make, but if you are not careful with your blocks you can scare away potential contributors, make your wiki un-wiki-like, or even wind up blocking yourself as you autoblock the whole planet!

The only time I have used indefinite blocks is on accounts that have vandalized repeatedly despite multiple temporary blocks and many warnings, or to block sockpuppets that have been clearly warned and yet continue to create new accounts to evade blocks.