We’ve had studies in 2017 reveal that anyone can be a troll — Stanford University survey said that under the right circumstances, and we could use our keypad as target practice to innocent people. In Shame Nation, researcher of online harassment, Lindsay Blackwell agreed. “We’re all capable,” of troll behavior when pushed to certain limits.
An Internet troll is someone who comes into a discussion and posts comments designed to upset or disrupt the conversation. Often, in fact, it seems like there is no real purpose behind their comments except to upset everyone else involved. Trolls will lie, exaggerate, and offend to get a response.
What kind of person would do this and is there a method for how to stop internet trolls? Some Canadian researchers decided to find out.
In chapter 7 of Shame Nation we describe six different ways people deal with trolls. In my opinion, the best way is not to engage with them. Depending on what type of troll they are, as our expert shares, there are usually two types – Recreational and Criminal Trolls – you may need to contact legal advice. Remember to always document your evidence, report and flag them as abusive and if possible, write the social platform if they are violating the Terms of Services.
Read more in Shame Nation.