LOL. About wiccans for shock value... well, that's not too hard. That is, if you have a chance to talk with them. Ask some basic questions, like, entry level questions, and watch them squirm.
Many of the "shockvalue wiccans" still think wicca has something to do with satanism.
Further, people who are shock-value wiccans often don't have a sense of humor about the whole thing. Sure, there are folks who do know what they are doing who don't have one, but again, it's a good indication.
One of the best ways to tell if you are dealing with someone in it for the shock value is if they try to intimidate you with "oooky spooky" magick.
Bonus points if they don't have a solid ground, yet talk about slinging magick all the time. Funny looks over meditation is another good indication.
The thing is, appearances aren't always a good way. Some people who really actually do know what they are talking about sometimes go in for the heavy makeup and tons of silver jewelry. At least.... I did at one time, and I've always been a geek about witchcraft, even in the beginning. OTOH, I was more of a jewelry fiend rather than the whole makeup thing, but when I was hanging out with the goths... watch out.
Also, many goths really do know their stuff about witchcraft. Or are they calling them emo these days? Oh bother.
So, in conclusion, you could use a small checklist and the more checks you get, the more likely you are to have a shock-value wiccan.
Now, the last thing to remember is that shock-value wiccans can mature over time to people who actually are reasonable. So it could be that person is just... needs to mellow into the path and get some education.
On the other hand... it's a lotta work sometimes. Trust me, I know. And you seem the efficient type. So it's up to you if it's worth it.
Sorry, just been hanging out in the pagan community for a... LONG time.
