its my understanding that no one would ever intentionally "laugh" you off the boards for your question. but rather direct you or redirect you to you answer.  Unfortunately for a few whom I would deem "suspect", take the direction personally....sometimes they deserve it, however, the name slinging is uncalled for in preserving the hobby which I am all about.

There are many boards to ask certain questions about, and in your case the FAQ for Newbies
http://www.theeroticreview.com/discussion_boards/messageList.asp?boardID=33

not as "laugh" you off as you ponder, but rather redirect in the fact that this is a Transsexual discussion board.

I'm no mod and don't aspire to be one, but they have a hard enough job as is. I choose not to elaborate anymore because of such and I am not here to question anyone's motive....but rather repeat once more....I like to preserve the hobby.