The simplest definition for “Internet trolling”, according to Jonathan Bishop, is “the posting of offensive messages on the Internet for humorous effect”. But where did the term originate? Is Internet trolling only about posting offensive messages for the fun of it? How safe is it to participate in online social communities without becoming a troller's victim? What can be done about Internet trolling? These are but some of the questions that cross one's mind when considering Internet trolling.
This book starts the process of answering some of the questions on Internet trolling. It is subdivided into four sections. In these sections Bishop addresses social, legal and ethical issues in Internet trolling; psychological and wellbeing issues; trust and participation in Web 2.0 systems at risk of Internet trolling; and looks at some of the possible solutions for dealing with Internet trolling.
A number of unethical behaviours inhibit full participation in online communities. This behaviour includes flaming, swearing, insults and deception. The term “flaming” refers to the posting of offensive or provocative messages online. This type of behaviour prompts Internet trolling researchers also to look at how the availability of personal information in online communities and in social networking services is used to aid flame trollers and other forms of Internet abuse such as cyberstalking and cyberbullying.
The outcome of flame trolling has significant effects on the psychology and wellbeing of victims. Research has shown that young people are often both victims and perpetrators of flame trolling. However, they can also make positive contributions to cyberspace and promote self-esteem and confidence in themselves and their peers. They can do this by being more polite and considerate of others and by showing empathy where needed.
Trust is an issue in all online communities, irrespective of whether it is an e-commerce community or a social network community. Since people, because of a lack of trust, are too afraid to participate fully in an online environment, they seem to become lurkers and prefer only to browse rather than participate. This is despite the fact that each type of Web 2.0 system attempts to create a safe online environment for its participants. For example, the Circle of Friends method used in Facebook and MySpace allows participants to defriend a person with whom they no longer want to be associated. In the last section the contributors look at the different options that are available for tackling the problem of flame trolling.
Bishop's edited collection provides current research on Internet trolling and not only addresses the technical approaches to Internet trolling but also looks at more social and behavioural involvement. This book is useful for researchers, students and practitioners interested in building a safer cyber environment for all. It includes a list of references at the end of each chapter as well as a compiled list of references. A useful index concludes the volume.
