Let's talk about trolling
- Apr 4, 2022
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 13
What is trolling?
"Trolling" is a slang term for posting offensive, negative, or provocative content on the internet, often in the form of comments on social media posts or news websites. A person who trolls typically wants to cause injury or conflict.
Why do people troll?
grab attention
seek revenge
curb boredom
spread misinformation
push extremist viewpoints
stroke outrage
Trolling is form of cyberbullying. It damages peoples' self-esteem and mental health.
What should I do if I'm being trolled?
don't respond
block the other user's account
report the post to the platform
do not post that you are being targeted
take screenshots if you are being harassed or threatened
report to the police as necessary
People who troll use the perceived anonymity of the internet to cause harm. Avoid amplifying their impact by resisting the urge to respond.
Be a peacemaker. Be respectful and honest while on the internet, and report cyberbullying behavior.
Sources:
BBC: “Why do people troll?” www.bbc.co.uk
Center for Countering Digital Hate: “Don’t feed the trolls,”
Voice of America: “Cyborgs, trolls, and bots: A guide to online misinformation,” www.voanews.com
