I remember when I first joined and was attacked almost immediately by said
"clique."
Obviously some people feel more secure in a gang and if you happen to have a different opinion on things...just be ready for the attempted dog-pile.
In the short time I've been here, it's been very interesting to see the number of folks who have been members for 5+ years, don't have that many posts even now...but have commented that they too were attacked and is the reason they don't post much.