A lot of times, I can happily leave a chatroom just running in the background, but sometimes, you need that confirmation that you are not just being sidelined because you are a 'newbie' or whatever. I dont see what difference it makes if one is newer or not. Still a human being...or an alien or whatever. When everyone is happily chatting and already knows each other, you dont want to say anything as you might be ignored because you are new. So I dont say anything. Because I have had that experience in the past. Sounds kinda stupid, but that is the way it is.