We take a deeper look at online harassment, particularly the rise and impact of trolling. Building on our online dating episode, we explore who is most affected, how it manifests, and the psychological toll it can take. Focusing on deliberate, harmful online behaviour meant to antagonise or disrupt, we unpack the different forms of trolling and why it’s become so widespread.
This is part one of a two-part topic (because Nicola likes to talk – and this is a big topic to cover!). The second episode will get into the causes of trolling – who are the trolls and why do they do what they do?
Content warning: sexual harassment, suicide, and psychological distress.
Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you. Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports
Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource
Key Papers
PEW Research: The State of Online Harassment
DCU: Understanding Adult Experiences of Online Hate in Ireland – An Exploratory Survey
The Impact of Online Abuse: Hearing the Victims’ Voice report – UK
Aktar & Marrison (2019) The prevalence and impact of online trolling of UK members of parliament
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