Dealing with online trolls can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can employ to handle the situation effectively. Here are some tips:
1. Starve the troll: Ignore their posts and avoid engaging with them. Trolls thrive on reactions, so not responding to their provocations can help defuse the situation[1].
2. Record it: Document any instances of trolling by taking screenshots or recording the interactions. This can be useful if you need to report the troll to the platform or authorities[1].
3. Stand up for yourself: Use the report and block functions available on most social media platforms to protect yourself from trolls. If the trolling continues, consider filing a complaint with the eSafety Commissioner or other relevant authorities[1].
4. Log off: Take breaks from social media and limit your exposure to trolls. This can help reduce stress and prevent escalation of the situation[1].
5. Tell someone you trust: Share your experiences with a trusted friend, family member, counselor, or teacher. Talking about the situation can help you feel better and provide you with support[1].
6. Nonresponse: Ignoring trolls can be an effective strategy, as they seek attention and negative reactions. By not responding, you deny them the satisfaction of getting a reaction[4].
7. Non-anonymity: If possible, engage with users who use their real names, as anonymity can contribute to trolling behavior. Consider avoiding platforms that allow anonymity[4].
Remember, it’s essential to maintain your composure and not stoop to the troll’s level. By staying calm and following these strategies, you can protect yourself and minimize the impact of online trolls on your mental well-being.
To make an anonymous comment, email me: xeno@xenomail.us
Citations
[1] https://au.reachout.com/articles/5-tips-for-dealing-with-trolls
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/8ut486/what_is_the_best_way_to_handle_online_trolls/
[3] https://www.searchenginejournal.com/defeat-online-trolls/323439/
[4] https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2022/03/how-to-manage-cyberbullying-internet-trolls/627084/
[5] https://www.webroot.com/us/en/resources/tips-articles/you-cant-win-an-argument-with-a-troll
4 comments
Reader comment: “Gods I hate trolls! Xeno, your sites, if people look, the content is clearly from a helpful intelligent individual. It’s creative, not scammer content by a longshot. Decades of light work. Just ignore and be yourself. We love you!”
Reader comment: “Hi Zeno, Just to tell you–I just block them. Did not see negative comments about you, but sorry you are going through that.”
Reader comment: “Stay strong (fist emoji), and kind (heart emoji)”
This was a popular topic. Summary of reader comments about trolls
1. “Trolling is a serious issue that harms internet users for the troll’s enjoyment”
2. “Trolls target various topics, from politics to gender, with provocative and harmful behavior”
3. “The extent of trolling is vast and growing daily, affecting individuals psychologically”
4. “Different types of trolls exist, such as flamers, grammar trolls, and crybabies”
5. “Governments are implementing strategies to combat trolling and its negative impact”
6. “Trolling can lead to psychological damage and negative impacts on internet users”
7. “Trolls are the worst. They’re like cyberbullies who thrive on making others feel bad. They need to be stopped.”
8. “Eliminating online anonymity at a governmental level could be a beneficial solution”
9. “Governments may be behind online trolling, to remove free speech”
10. “Trolls are keyboard warriors who think they’re tough behind a screen. They’re not worth anyone’s time or energy.”
11. “Trolls engage in various types of destructive behaviors online, causing harm to others”
12. “Trolls are the scum of the internet. They have no morals or ethics and should be banned from social media platforms.”
13. “Kind people need and should have anonymity due to anonymous trolls.”
14. “Trolls exploit anonymity to spread hate speech and negative content online”
15. “Effective tools are needed to detect and filter out destructive actions by trolls online”
16. “Online discussions need better moderation tools to facilitate constructive conversations”
17. “Reward systems online often favor outrage and attention-seeking behavior by trolls”
18. “Politicians like Donald Trump have shown how powerful figures can exploit social media for trolling”
19. “Trolls are just attention seekers who want to stir up trouble. They’re not worth engaging with.”
20. “Trolling behavior can be influenced by a user’s mood and the context of the discussion”
21. “Negative mood and prior troll posts increase the likelihood of someone engaging in trolling behavior”
22. “Trolls are just sad individuals who seek attention by causing chaos and negativity. They need to find a healthier way to express themselves.”
23. “Anonymity online contributes to the prevalence of trolling behavior in various online communities”
24. “Trolling can spread from person to person within a community, affecting multiple users”
25. “The impact of trolling extends beyond individual victims to create negative environments online”
26. “Online platforms like CNN.com experience significant trolling behavior from ordinary users”
27. “Trolls are people who hide behind screens and spew hateful comments. They’re cowards who can’t handle real-life confrontation.”
28. “The UK has implemented laws like the Communications Act 2003 to regulate offensive messages online”
29. “Identifying and tracking trolls online is crucial for combating their harmful activities”
30. “Cultural shifts are essential alongside legal measures to address the issue of internet trolling effectively”
31. “If you get trolled, people block you to avoid the trolls, that’s basically how trolls silence people.”
32. “De-platforming is accomplished by trolls.”
33. “Legislative changes and cultural transformations are necessary to address internet trolling effectively”
34. “Understanding the causes of trolling can help design better social systems to prevent it.”
35. “Solutions to trolling include personal, corporate, and governmental actions”
36. “Trolling is a fast-growing issue in modern society with widespread negative effects”
37. “Trolls are just people who are insecure and have low self-esteem. They try to bring others down to make themselves feel better.”
38. “Anonymity on the internet allows trolls to act without fear of social stigma or consequences”
37. “Trolls are like parasites who feed on negativity and drama. They’re toxic and should be avoided at all costs.”
38. “Online polarization is becoming mainstream, leading to more divisive and inflammatory content”
39. “Trolls are people who have nothing better to do than spread hate and negativity. They’re a waste of space and energy.”
40. “Some trolls are hired to do it.”