Being one of the members in chat during the spell you were referring to, I can assure you that there was no hate behind the teasing we were doing to each other. That's what it was... teasing. Some people may not like that flavor of "locker room" banter, but many do.
Usually, people are picked on for 'self described issues'. For example, if someone one week says they think they're fat and going on a diet, and the next week talk about getting a 2nd donut. They're going to hear about that 2nd donut.
Some of us have gotten to that level of familiarity and comfort BECAUSE we've been there for each other in more serious times. We've dealt with cheating boyfriends, terrible parents, school troubles, financial problems, lost jobs, etc. When it's a serious topic (like even about writing/stories), GA Chat can be a nurturing environment.
Take Care®,
Vic - 44yo (the old, fat, pom,pom carrying guy being discussed during that spell)