Handling Trolls on Social Media: A How-To Guide

Discussions.” In response to concerns about incivility, especially in online conversations, ASHA has developed a digital toolkit of civility-related tools, templates and resources. Here are some examples of what you’ll find. Hashtag Use of this hashtag is voluntary, and is meant to encourage and/or acknowledge the civility of others in a social media discussion. For example, “Thanks for pointing out that perspective. I’m glad we could have this discussion! #ASHACivility” Trolls An Internet troll is someone who posts off-topic, aggressive or unnecessarily controversial complaints—usually anonymous. Cyberbullies (those who take trolling to the next level) can be detrimental to your online brand and image. Dealing with them, therefore, requires a careful approach that quells quarrels but maintains your dignity. Starve the troll. Ignoring the poster and refusing to engage will likely bore the troll and persuade them to go elsewhere. Kill the troll with kindness and facts. Trolls thrive on aggression and anxiety. You entice them if you become defensive and confrontational. Being polite—thanking them for their constructive criticism, for instance—can be a surprising reaction that neutralizes the situation. Cyberbullies often perpetuate misinformation or intentionally skew data to promote their agenda and gain traction. Address misinformation by sticking to the facts and ignoring their rudeness. Befriend troll hunters. Trolls aren’t intimidated. Peer pressure from...
Source: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Press Releases - Category: Speech-Language Pathology Authors: Tags: Academia & Research Audiology Health Care Private Practice Schools Slider Speech-Language Pathology civility Social Media Technology toolkit Source Type: blogs