Social Media Trolls: What They Are and How to Deal with Them
If you spend time online, you've probably come across social media trolls. These are people who post negative, inflammatory, or off-topic messages just to provoke others or stir up trouble. Trolls thrive on getting reactions, dragging conversations off course, and sometimes even making online spaces uncomfortable or hostile.
So how do you spot a troll? They often post comments that are clearly meant to upset or annoy, sometimes using insulting language, spreading misinformation, or targeting specific users unfairly. They rarely contribute meaningful content or engage in honest discussions. Instead, they want you to respond emotionally, which gives them the attention they seek.
Why Do Trolls Troll?
Understanding why trolls act this way can help you avoid falling into their trap. Sometimes, trolls enjoy the feeling of control that comes from upsetting people. Other times, they might be bored or seeking validation from an audience. In some cases, groups use trolling as a tactic to sway opinions or spread propaganda. Whatever the reason, feeding into their behavior usually only makes things worse.
Practical Tips to Handle Trolls
When dealing with trolls, the best move is often to ignore them completely. No response means no satisfaction for the troll. Use block or mute functions to keep your feed clean. If a troll crosses lines into threats or harassment, report them to the social media platform. Protect your mental health by focusing on positive interactions, and don’t hesitate to step away from social media if it’s getting overwhelming.
Remember, the internet is a wide place with plenty of good conversations. Trolls want to bring you down, but you can decide not to give them the power. Keep your experience online enjoyable by managing negativity wisely.
Victor Boniface Combats Social Media Trolls: 'I'm Not Your Regular Celebrity'
Victor Boniface, a renowned footballer, has strongly cautioned social media trolls following singer Chike's recent act of gifting a troll N1 million. Boniface insists that he won't be offering cash gifts and will not tolerate any provocation or disrespect, emphasizing that he is unwaveringly different from the norm.
