You Never Get Trolled for Being Innocent: Understanding the Roots of Online Trolling.

In the vast, interconnected world of the internet, it’s easy to imagine that trolls are just lurking, waiting to pick on anyone, regardless of what they’ve said or done. But in truth, trolling is rarely directed at people who are simply innocent bystanders. Trolls often target individuals for a reason—sometimes good, sometimes petty—but it’s usually in response to something the person has said, done, or posted.

Let’s break down the top 10 reasons people get trolled and explore why it’s often a reaction to something about a person’s online behaviour or persona. Remember, this list isn’t meant to excuse trolls, but rather to shed light on the dynamics at play.

1. Controversial Opinions.

Posting a strong opinion, especially on sensitive topics like politics, religion, or social issues, can attract trolls who disagree. People who speak out boldly often face backlash simply because their views don't align with mainstream or opposing beliefs.

2. Hypocrisy.

Nothing attracts trolls faster than hypocrisy. If someone criticises a behaviour and then engages in it themselves, trolls will likely pounce. The internet never forgets and has a way of bringing receipts to expose inconsistencies.

3. Public Criticism of Others.

Calling others out publicly, especially in a harsh or confrontational way, can lead to retaliation. Trolls may view this as an invitation to critique the critic, often with the same energy they dished out.

4. Over-Sharing Personal Details.

Sharing too much information online, especially about personal problems or drama, can open the door to trolls. They see oversharing as an invitation to insert themselves into the person's private life.

5. Self-Promotion or Perceived Narcissism.

Constantly posting selfies, bragging about accomplishments, or centering oneself in conversations can be seen as attention-seeking. Trolls often target people they perceive as overly self-centred or fame-hungry.

6. Making Mistakes.

Mistakes, even minor ones, can be fodder for trolls. Misspeaking, making factual errors, or posting something inaccurate can prompt trolls to jump in and highlight the slip-up, often in an exaggerated or mocking way.

7. Being “Too Good” or Perfect Online.

People who project an overly perfect or moralistic image may be targeted by trolls who see this as fake or self-righteous. Trolls often enjoy "exposing" the supposed flaws of those who appear flawless.

8. Responding to Trolls.

Engaging with trolls or attempting to defend oneself can sometimes worsen the situation. Trolls feed off reactions, and showing that they’ve gotten under your skin can be an invitation for more harassment.

9. Unpopular or Outdated Views.

Holding beliefs that are out of sync with modern values, even if harmless, can attract trolling. Trolls often jump on anything that feels antiquated or resistant to societal change, seeing it as a target for ridicule.

10. Viral Moments Gone Wrong.

Sometimes, a single viral post can backfire. Whether it’s a joke that missed the mark or an attempt at virality that didn’t resonate, trolls often take this as an opportunity to swarm, sometimes exaggerating the "failure."

Trolling as a Reaction to Online Behaviour.

In essence, trolling is often a reaction to conduct that others find fault with. The digital world amplifies people’s words and actions, and what might pass unnoticed in real life can draw significant reactions online. People tend to get trolled as a response to behaviour that others find bothersome, inconsistent, or overly attention-seeking.

Remember, no one deserves to be trolled, regardless of what they’ve posted. But the reality is that trolls often target based on what they perceive as flaws or provocations, and that’s a dynamic that is unlikely to disappear any time soon. Understanding these patterns can help us all navigate the online world with a bit more awareness and maybe avoid becoming the trolls’ next target.