Net culture: what is trolling? Our guide explains it

The anonymity of the Internet tempts some people to engage in specific behaviors, including rather negative ones. We explain the phenomenon of so-called trolling.

Widespread problem: Trolling is about purposefully disrupting discussions.

A troll is originally a mythical creature from Norse mythology. On the Internet, the term has a meaning all of its own.

What is trolling and how should it be reacted to?

Trolling is carried out by trolls and the pattern behind it can be explained as follows:

• Trolls take part in online discussions with the aim of disrupting or provoking.
• This can be done by various means, such as deliberately making false claims or subtle provocations. Insults can also be a means, but then usually rather subliminal, since a troll of the exclusion from a discussion platform usually wants to avoid.
• Also the goals of trolling can be quite different, starting with the fun of taking away the joy of discussion from other users, to the intention to destroy entire communities or to sow discord there.
• As the best reaction to trolling attempts is not to respond to it. According to the meaning of this originated the saying "Don't feed the troll", even if this is often easier said than done.
• Finally, the troll wants to see a reaction to his behavior, as he draws satisfaction and confirmation from it. If his attempts run into the void, this can initially provide even more activity, but then lead to abandonment.

Because of the size of the online world and the psychological background of trolls, it is unlikely that one day there will be no more trolling. With proper moderation and a cool head, the problem can often at least be contained.