TROLLING
Ever find yourself reading the comments that people post on social networking sites?
Having done this on many occasions to gain an insight into the responses some people receive, I found myself shocked at the type of abusive comments that are often left for people to read.
For as long as we have had social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and even the newer sites such as Instagram, “Cyber-bullying” has been evident. More recently this activity has been referred to as “Trolling”.
So what is this new culture of Trolling, celeb-bashing, and downright negative behaviour? Where does it stem from?
Although Trolling can sometimes be seen as harmless banter, there are many different types, some of which are perceived as threatening behaviour, or are used to attack or demean another person online. Although freedom of speech is promoted in many countries worldwide, this kind of behavior is unacceptable and in extreme cases it has been considered a criminal offence. Some of these offences have even resulted in custodial sentences.
Whether it be a celebrity or an everyday person, no one deserves to be personally victimized online. Bullying of any kind is a trend within society, that we are trying to fight against every day, however this virtual kind of bullying is a faster growing problem.
There is something about the anonymity of the web that makes users more likely to comment in a negative way, or even give constructive criticism. Within the urban community, a person portraying this type of behavior is referred to as a “Keyboard Gangster”. For example someone may pass a judgment on someone else which they wouldn’t necessarily say to them in person.
My advice to AMOR readers is: If you have nothing positive to say, it’s best to say nothing at all.
Working together may we all be able to surf the net in virtual harmony!
Elisha Ricketts
