Understanding Internet Trolling: Definitions and Core Behaviors

Internet trolling is a deliberate, disruptive online behavior aimed at provoking, deceiving, or antagonizing others for personal amusement or gain. Trolls often exploit the anonymity of digital platforms to instigate arguments, spread misinformation, or inflict emotional distress. Their actions range from subtle manipulation and off-topic diversions to overtly aggressive, abusive, or inflammatory comments. While trolling can sometimes be mistaken for mere online mischief, research consistently highlights its antisocial and harmful nature, aligning it closely with cyberbullying and online harassment.

The Dark Tetrad: Personality Traits Linked to Trolling

Narcissism, Machiavellianism, Psychopathy, and Sadism

Research shows that the "Dark Tetrad" of personality traits as central to understanding trolling behavior:

  • Narcissism: Characterized by grandiosity, entitlement, and a craving for admiration, narcissists may troll to assert superiority or defend their self-image, especially when threatened.
  • Machiavellianism: Marked by manipulativeness and strategic deception, individuals high in this trait use trolling as a tool for social control or personal gain.
  • Psychopathy: Defined by impulsivity, callousness, and a lack of empathy or remorse, psychopathic individuals are drawn to the thrill and chaos of trolling, often acting without regard for consequences.
  • Sadism: The most predictive trait for trolling, sadists derive pleasure from inflicting pain or humiliation, making the distress of others a source of entertainment.

Empirical studies consistently show that while all four traits correlate with trolling, sadism and psychopathy are the strongest predictors of both the motivation to troll and actual trolling behavior. These individuals are not only more likely to engage in trolling but also to view it as acceptable or even enjoyable.

The Role of Schadenfreude

Schadenfreude—the pleasure derived from witnessing others' misfortune—further amplifies trolling tendencies. Trolls high in schadenfreude often see their actions as a form of entertainment or even as a legitimate mode of online communication, disregarding the emotional impact on their targets.

Motivations and Environmental Triggers

Anonymity and the Online Disinhibition Effect

The digital environment, with its inherent anonymity, fosters what psychologists call the "online disinhibition effect." This phenomenon lowers social inhibitions, allowing individuals to act in ways they would never consider in face-to-face interactions. Trolls, especially those with sadistic or psychopathic tendencies, are drawn to anonymous platforms where they can act without fear of reprisal or social judgment.

Motivational Drivers: Boredom, Revenge, and Social Dominance

Research identifies several key motivations behind trolling:

  • Boredom and Thrill-Seeking: Many trolls report engaging in disruptive behavior simply for entertainment or to alleviate boredom.
  • Revenge and Social Power: Some are motivated by a desire to retaliate against perceived slights or to assert dominance within online communities.
  • Manipulation and Attention-Seeking: Trolling can be a strategy to manipulate group dynamics, attract attention, or disrupt social norms.

The Influence of Humor Styles

Aggressive and self-defeating humor styles are also linked to trolling. Trolls often use sarcasm, mockery, and ridicule to provoke reactions, and may even target themselves to gain social acceptance or deflect criticism.

Empathy Deficits and Social Dynamics

Trolls typically exhibit low affective (emotional) empathy, meaning they do not feel or share the emotions of others. However, they may possess high cognitive empathy, allowing them to accurately predict and exploit the emotional responses of their victims without experiencing any personal distress. This combination makes them adept manipulators, capable of maximizing the psychological impact of their actions.

Gender, Age, and Social Context

Studies reveal nuanced gender and age differences in trolling behavior:

  • Gender: Men are generally more likely to engage in trolling, often viewing it as functional or acceptable, while women are more likely to perceive it as dysfunctional and are disproportionately targeted by severe forms of online abuse.
  • Age: Younger individuals, particularly those aged 18–29, report higher rates of both perpetrating and experiencing online harassment.

The Bystander Effect and Passive Participation

Trolling is not limited to active perpetrators. Passive bystanders—those who observe, enjoy, or tacitly endorse trolling without direct participation—also play a significant role in perpetuating online toxicity. Lower agreeableness, a personality trait marked by antagonism and lack of empathy, predicts both active trolling and passive bystanderism. This highlights the importance of social context and group dynamics in the spread and normalization of trolling behaviors.

Psychological and Societal Impact

The consequences of trolling extend far beyond momentary discomfort. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and, in severe cases, suicidal ideation. The normalization of trolling can erode trust, civility, and mental well-being within online communities, creating hostile environments that discourage open dialogue and authentic self-expression.

Strategies for Prevention and Response

Individual and Platform-Level Interventions

  • Do Not Engage: The most effective personal strategy is to avoid responding to trolls, as attention and emotional reactions are their primary rewards.
  • Block and Report: Utilize platform tools to block, mute, or report abusive users.
  • Document and Seek Support: Keep records of abusive interactions and seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals if needed.
  • Platform Responsibility: Social media companies are increasingly called upon to improve moderation, enforce community standards, and design features that reduce anonymity or incentivize positive engagement.

Q&A

What personality traits are most strongly linked to internet trolling?

The strongest predictors are sadism and psychopathy, followed by narcissism and Machiavellianism. These traits, collectively known as the Dark Tetrad, are associated with a lack of empathy, manipulativeness, impulsivity, and enjoyment of others' suffering.

How does anonymity influence trolling behavior?

Anonymity lowers social inhibitions and accountability, making it easier for individuals—especially those with dark personality traits—to engage in trolling without fear of consequences. This "online disinhibition effect" is a key environmental factor enabling trolling.

What is the best way to deal with trolls online?

The most effective approach is to ignore trolls, avoid engaging with their provocations, and use platform tools to block or report them. Engaging with trolls typically escalates the situation and provides them with the attention they seek.