Which is more constructive?

[ellajam]

When critiquing I've noticed that everyone tends to have their own style, much like writing. What I wonder is which is more constructive for the writer, praise or criticism?

I guess one could argue it depends on the writer, but I'm curious what you think,

thoughts?

The question itself is flawed.  You pose it as if criticism is the opposite to praise, but it's not.  Criticism does not mean the same thing as censure.  It is not a negative thing at all -- it is merely a detailed comment.  That detail should always include positive and negative aspects, with constructive comments as to how something may be improved.  

If you only want half the criticism -- ie. just praise -- then Facebook might be a better place to post.  Or AllPoetry, they're quite big on blowing smoke up people's arses.

Ah, I see what you mean when you explain it. The word criticism to me has always had, mm not a negative connotation, but not a positive connotation to it either. I will admit this question stemmed from my own wonderings however of quite a few of these new fellows and their critiques. Alot of praise, alot of I like this and here's why, to which it led me to wonder if praise is at all constructive. What I really wanted to ask is "Is there any point to praise?" but I didnt want to sound like a dick
It seems you've answered that as well 

When I first came here I was the same writing fool I am now but knew nothing about poetry except I knew what I liked. So in order to take part, I just pointed out what I liked and started to think about why. Eventually while I was pointing out what I liked I started to identify what might be improved. It's a fine path for newbs if they stick around, it's one way into the site for those of us who are relatively uneducated but love the sounds, images and ideas that words make.