Have you any clue where trolls reside? “Beneath the bridge”—is what I’d have stated in the past. But currently, these wicked figures from Scandinavian folklore have moved onto the Internet. Having plagued diverse forums and communities, present-day trolls stay loyal to the guidelines of their mythic counterparts. They spread contention, spark intense disputes, and bother honorable users…
Therefore, what are these instigators, why do they act this way, and, crucially, how might we oppose them? Let’s tackle this bit by bit…
Snag a fish…
Translated directly, “trolling” denotes fishing utilizing a lure. In online lingo, trolling means publishing any data that triggers pointless conflict. The troll’s objective is plain: to ensnare as many individuals as conceivable using this “bait.” “Do it for the lulz” constitutes the troll’s catchphrase. Lulz, if you weren’t aware, are jests, origins of amusement and cheerfulness.
The contemporary troll displays many facets and cunning. Identifying one amongst a throng of users isn’t always straightforward. Nevertheless, certain categories can be discerned through particular traits. We will examine the most noticeable ones momentarily…
“Did Machismo Exist?” or An Amusing Classification of Trolls
Should you stumble upon someone online endeavoring to garner notice by any method conceivable, keep in mind they could be an egocentric troll . Intentional simple queries, manifestly inaccurate remarks, marketing a competitor forum, and provocative pronouncements represent merely a few avenues they “capture” lulz. Usually, at the conclusion of a disagreement, the egocentric simulates naivety and indignation.
The romantic hero derives pleasure from continuously seducing the group’s female segment. Here, the troll strikes upon the age-old weakness—the aspiration to be unique. This approach generates rivalry between the females, alongside mirroring of the “hero” by the group’s male section. Consequently, everyone becomes absorbed in flirtation, and the group fails to accomplish its initial intention.
At times you may encounter an individual online appearing shockingly dense. Acquaint yourself with the idiot . Their aim involves observing others’ responses. And the responses might extend from endeavors to guide them onto the correct course to blatant mockery and attempts at flaunting their own wisdom relative to the “idiot.”
A gossip troll concentrates on disseminating defamation or tales concerning an occurrence or figure. As backing evidence, they typically furnish a link to a related, although imaginary, resource.
Another favored persona archetype comprises the boor . He generally picks a emotionally unstable target and commences enraging them through abuses. Oftentimes, the boor possesses numerous similar-minded advocates.
The strategy of the debater , yet another troll, involves initiating a discussion regarding preferences. The debater subsequently embraces the most unpopular viewpoint and commences contending with the majority. In this instance, the “catch” hinges directly upon the troll’s comprehension of the subject matter.
Some trolls relish leveraging individuals’ fascination through impersonating celebrities . More frequently than not, users hasten to confirm the information and dispute the “star’s” validity.
An intriguing variation is the schizophrenic troll . Two profiles presenting conflicting thoughts are fashioned within a group. The troll then sparks a debate with themselves, aspiring to discover like-minded individuals on either side amongst the group’s users and induce a heated quarrel.
Jealousy constitutes a deadly sin and a wide scope for a successful troll . The technique appears straightforward: a portrayal of someone who has attained exceptional heights, across any realm of existence, is established. Indisputably, there will exist users keen on placing the brazen individual in their proper place. Certain individuals will substantiate the troll’s falsehood. Others will argue he isn’t as prosperous as he supposes. Yet others will berate the troll simply resulting from acknowledging their inferiority.
Truly, accumulating an exhaustive catalog of troll classifications poses considerable difficulty. Grasping their intentions additionally proves challenging. However, I shall attempt regardless…
Why do they engage in this behavior?
As I’ve previously mentioned, a troll’s principal intention involves discovering lulz. However, other justifications exist for why individuals troll:
• Experiment . Electronic communication affords a degree of anonymity facilitating the testing of the limits of human endurance. Nonetheless, recalling that online impunity remains fictional, and substantial contraventions of conduct regulations might result in harsh repercussions bears importance.
• Expression of hostility . Trolling permits the anonymous conveying of a stance contradictory to a specific perspective or collective.
• Checking the work of moderators . Trolling enables monitoring the reaction to infractions by those accountable for sustaining order.
• Sadism . Certain individuals simply delight in individualized aggression. This represents a clinical instance and a topic meriting an entirely distinct piece.
Trolling a troll – an unachievable task?
While a troll’s drives may not consistently defy coherent elucidation, the counteraction alternatives remain considerably more basic. Merely three methods exist for interacting with a troll:
1. Steer the troll toward the appropriate course. A precarious selection. Responding to the troll will divert the discourse away from the subject, unsettle lookers-on, and furnish the troll with the awareness they covet.
2. Disregard the troll. The most dependable selection. “Avoid feeding the troll” represents a motto located across numerous forums on account of ample justification. Via ignoring, you deprive the troll of recognition and “nourishment,” thereby invalidating its basis for existing.
3. Troll the troll . This entails a particularly hazardous option, demanding a substantial allocation of duration and labor. Should you determine upon exacting vengeance upon the troll and deem it worthwhile, you might attempt it. Here are some broad pointers intended for those contemplating confronting a troll:
• Remain vigilant consistently.
• Display the capacity to adapt swiftly to evolving circumstances.
• Demonstrate resoluteness.
• Exercise attentiveness toward particulars.
However, all of these qualities furnish no certainty of triumph. In the end, while pursuing a troll, you risk descending to its own plane, wherein it will outdo anybody through its expertise.
