RE: 14 Truths About Trolls - Stats & Analysis Behind The Madness
I've written a couple articles on here so far about trolling:
Steemit's Cultural Standards: How To Deal With Sociopathic Trolls & Abusive, Potential Criminals...?
Such behavior is inevitable. However, I feel it's how we respond to it that determines whether/how it continues.
Sometimes, it may be wisest not to respond at all. Other times, it's an opportunity - to learn and to serve.
There's much growth to be had in ceasing judgement of somebody who's outright being an ass and being flexible (yet firm) enough to respond maturely and set a right example of acceptable behavior.
I think with the inbuilt incentivization & reputation systems on Steemit, the conditions here are greatly different than other social media sites - and the conditions serve well to discourage trolling to a degree. But even when they pop up, sometimes its an act of service the community to honor and respect them by taking the time to treat them fairly enough to engage in a mature conversation. Sometimes there's a gift for them in honest, direct feedback - which they need in order to evolve into contributors of value to the community.
though at the same time - time management...
I've tried that and have always attempted to be respectful and give people a chance to redeem themselves. One specific person really got under my skin as they went about degrading another user. I'm usually fine with whatever someone says about me, but I stand up for my friends. Probably would have responded differently now that I know a bit more about the psyche of some of those behind their screens. I don't believe anyone can truly be a troll without having some sort of deep wound or insecurity where they feel better about themselves by trying to take someone's emotions for a frustrating ride. Trolls will always be around, but I am willing to show them respect, even if they don't show it to me. While I don't feel trolls are an enemy I feel that this verse in Romans 12:20 rings true "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Basically by being kind to those who show hate, you will make them think about what they are doing, because instead of reciprocating hate, you will have confused them and possibly changed a small part of their thought process. I will take a look at your articles about trolls as well, as I'm sure you went in depth and have some practical ways of how to best deal with different types of trolls and the best time to engage/ignore them.