The reason why the same logic doesn't apply in both cases is because they are 2 different cases. It's like comparing apples to oranges.

Members are free to come and go as they see fit to do. If they leave without asking for the account to be deleted, we don't automatically delete it for the reason you mention, they may decide to come back at some time.

If a member ASKS for their account to be deleted it can be for any number of reasons and we may not know exactly what their train of thought is. But, it is their choice and it should be honored. There are any number of reasons that a member asks to delete their account, from safety reasons to finding they are not in a good place being here or even that Psych Central is not what they are needing at this time. They may not want a "footprint" of their username or issues discussed to be found through a search engine.

I hope this answers your questions!