Online trolling refers to the act of deliberately posting provocative or inflammatory messages, comments, or content online with the intention of causing disruption or annoyance. Trolls often use anonymous accounts or pseudonyms to avoid accountability for their behavior and likely target individuals or groups based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or political views.

One famous incident that demonstrates the impact of online trolling on an influencer is the case of Caroline Flack. Caroline Flack was a British television presenter and personality who faced intense online trolling and harassment before her death by suicide in 2020.

Flack had been the subject of online trolling and abuse for several years, particularly after she was charged with assaulting her boyfriend in 2019. The abuse intensified following the incident, with many people on social media platforms making derogatory comments about her personal life and appearance.

Despite efforts to seek help and support for her mental health, the online abuse took a toll on Flack and she was found dead in her London apartment in February 2020, leading to widespread outrage and calls for stronger measures to address online trolling and cyberbullying.

Types of trolling

Trolling refers to the act of intentionally provoking and upsetting people on the internet. There are various types of trolling, some of which are:

1. Flaming: Flaming is a type of trolling where someone insults or attacks others online. This can be done through comments, messages, or forum posts.
   
2. Baiting: Baiting involves posting something controversial or provocative to elicit a reaction from others. The goal is to get people to engage in arguments and debates.
   
3. Fake news: This type of trolling involves spreading false information or news with the intention of causing chaos, confusion, or controversy.
   
4. Doxxing: Doxxing is a type of trolling where someone reveals personal information about someone else online. This can include their full name, address, phone number, and other sensitive information.
5. Concern trolling: It involves pretending to be sympathetic or concerned about a particular issue or topic, but in reality, the goal is to provoke arguments or disrupt discussions.
   
6. Sockpuppeting: This type of trolling involves creating multiple fake accounts to support one’s own opinions or to attack others.
   
7. Rickrolling: Rickrolling involves tricking someone into clicking on a hyperlink that leads to the music video for Rick Astley’s song “Never Gonna Give You Up.”

How can we contribute to stopping online bullying and trolling?

There are several ways in which we can contribute to stopping online bullying and trolling. Here are some suggestions:

1. Don’t engage with trolls: Responding to trolls only gives them the attention they seek. If you encounter a troll, it’s best to ignore them and move on.
   
2. Report abusive behavior: Most social media platforms and websites have a reporting system for abusive behavior. If you witness online bullying or trolling, report it to the appropriate authorities.
   
3. Speak out against bullying: If you see someone being bullied online, speak up and let them know that their behavior is not acceptable. Show your support and let the victim know that they are not alone.
   
4. Educate yourself and others: Learn about the different types of online bullying and trolling so that you can recognize it when it happens. Educate others on how to identify and avoid online harassment.
   
5. Support victims of bullying: If someone you know is being bullied online, offer them emotional support and let them know that you are there for them. Encourage them to seek help if needed.

Things we do that contribute to trolling and can encourage other trollers

Unfortunately, some of our online behaviors can contribute to trolling and even encourage others to engage in this behavior. Here are some things we may do that can contribute to trolling:

1. Engage with trolls: Responding to trolls only gives them the attention they seek. When we engage with them, we are indirectly encouraging them to continue their behavior.
   
2. Reacting emotionally: Trolls often want to elicit an emotional response from their targets. When we react emotionally to their comments, we are giving them what they want, which can encourage them to continue their behavior.
   
3. Sharing controversial or provocative content: Sharing controversial or provocative content on social media can encourage others to engage in trolling or other abusive behaviors. It can also attract the attention of trolls who are looking for a target.
   
4. Posting offensive comments: Such  comments online can contribute to a toxic online environment and encourage others to engage in similar behavior.
   
5. Belittling or ridiculing others: Such behavior online can be seen as a form of bullying, which can encourage others to engage in similar behavior.

How to look after yourself when being trolled

Being trolled online can be a distressing and overwhelming experience, but there are things you can do to look after yourself. Here are some suggestions:

1. Take a break: If you are feeling overwhelmed or upset, take a break from social media or the internet altogether. Take some time to do something you enjoy or spend time with people who make you feel good.
   
2. Reach out for support: Talk to someone you trust about what’s happening. This can be a friend, family member, or a professional. It’s important to have a support system in place to help you through this difficult time.
   
3. Report the abuse: Most social media platforms and websites have a reporting system for abusive behavior. Use this system to report the trolling and seek help from the platform’s support team.
   
4. Focus on the positive: Try to focus on the positive aspects of your life and the things that make you happy. This can help shift your focus away from the negativity of the trolling.
   
5. Practice self-care: Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in activities that make you feel good.

Conclusion

Online trolling and harassment can have a significant emotional toll on individuals who are targeted. It’s also important to remember that you are not alone and that online trolling and harassment are not your fault. By taking steps to manage the emotional toll and seek support, individuals can take control of the situation and regain a sense of safety and well-being.