Engaging With Trolls: The Fallacy of Ignoring and the Need for Humor
Dealing with internet trolls can be a challenging and often frustrating experience. The age-old advice of ignoring trolls is often given, but is this always the best approach? In this article, we delve into the complexities of engaging with trolls, the dangers of ignoring them, and the power of humor in online interactions.
The Evolution of Trolling
My journey with trolls began in 1998, at the tender age of 15. My best friend, Hana (or Kizuna in some circles), unexpectedly proved to be a troll who garnered notoriety for wreaking havoc on online communities. Her brother, known by the unfortunate moniker Stroker, was a notorious disruptor, terrorizing members and particularly targeting me, the original Artemisia.
Despite the chaos Stroker and others caused, there was a human side to these trolls. Over time, they became humanized through our interactions, and this led to some unintended consequences. Eventually, I discovered that the trolling was more than just mischief—they were trying to get close to me and potentially infiltrate my life offline.
Is Ignoring Really the Best Approach?
Many argue that ignoring trolls is the best strategy. However, it’s important to understand why this might not always be the case. Trolls often seek validation and attention, and if they feel ignored, they may intensify their efforts to get noticed. In my experience, not only could trolls cause significant harm through harassment and manipulation, but ignoring them might also enable them to spread the chaos beyond their immediate target.
Furthermore, the act of ignoring trolls can sometimes be seen as validation for their actions. By choosing not to engage, you're essentially conceding to their attempts to push your buttons. This can lead to an escalation of the situation, which is often not what you set out to accomplish.
The Power of Humor
One effective strategy for dealing with trolls is using humor. By employing wit and a sense of humor, you can disarm the situation and turn what could be a harmful interaction into a benign exchange. Humor allows you to show that you’re not afraid of their antics, and it can help to disarm the potential hostility that might arise from a confrontational approach.
In the case of Stroker and Hana, adopting a humorous tone in my communications helped to humanize them and allowed me to establish a sense of camaraderie. This approach made it easier for me to uncover the truth behind their actions and take appropriate measures to protect myself and my online community.
Understanding the Motivations Behind Trolling
Often, calling someone a troll is a way to dismiss or discredit their opinions. However, labeling someone as a troll can be a misinformed and knee-jerk reaction. Real people with genuine concerns and differing opinions can sometimes be mistaken for trolls. It’s essential to take the time to understand the motivations behind their actions and to engage in rational and constructive dialogue.
One of the key issues is that people who hold different opinions from you might face backlash from others who perceive them as trolls. This can create a hostile environment that further polarizes opinions. By approaching these individuals with a sense of humor and an open mind, you can help to de-escalate tensions and promote more balanced online discussions.
The Role of Normies in Trolling Situations
Normies, or ordinary people, might not have the experience or patience to deal with trolls effectively. Ignoring trolls is often advised, but this might not be the best approach for everyone, especially those who are not trained to handle such situations. Engaging with trolls can sometimes be more productive, as it allows for a better understanding of their motivations and can help to mitigate harmful behavior.
On the other hand, treating trolls like they are an overwhelming social virus can create an adversarial environment that can exacerbate biases and lead to further polarization. It’s important to distinguish between those who genuinely troll for fun and those who might be expressing dissenting opinions in a misguided manner.
Conclusion
Engaging with trolls, or using humor in online interactions, can be a complex and nuanced approach. While ignoring trolls might seem like the safest option, it’s important to consider the potential consequences of this strategy. By understanding the motivations behind trolling and employing a sense of humor, you can navigate these online challenges more effectively and promote a healthier online community. Remember, in this connected world, how we handle trolls can have a significant impact on the overall online experience.