If you’re a woman navigating the online world, there’s an overwhelming (like 99%) chance you’ve crossed paths with a male troll. And if you haven’t? Please enlighten us with your secrets, because these individuals are everywhere. A recent study has validated what many women have long suspected: men are indeed more likely to engage in trolling behavior online—largely due to higher levels of antisocial tendencies and narcissism.
Kudos to the researchers who unearthed this revelation; their findings seem like a no-brainer to those familiar with online interactions. Unsurprisingly, there will be voices insisting #notallmen, as if it makes the problem any less prevalent.
The Study
Conducted by a team from Brunel University and Goldsmiths, University of London, the research focused on Facebook as the primary social media platform. The study categorized social media use into two distinct behaviors: prosocial, which fosters connections and relationships, and antisocial, where individuals seek attention and engage in trolling. Women predominantly use Facebook in a prosocial manner, while men are more inclined to utilize it for negative interactions. This antisocial behavior is often linked to narcissistic traits, especially among men.
As a woman who spends considerable time online, I can personally attest to the prevalence of male trolls. My experiences as a female writer published solely on the internet have amplified my encounters with such individuals. While I strive to remain unfazed, their comments can be disheartening and offensive.
The Broader Context
Although this study primarily examined Facebook, we all know that platforms like Twitter are notorious for harboring narcissistic male trolls. It’s as if they multiply there, and unwanted comments can range widely in terms of misogyny and disrespect. For instance, I once had a stranger opine that if my ex was worthy of fatherhood, he was also suitable for marriage—what a laugh! The “mansplainers” and those who attempt to twist my own words against me are just part of the package.
Interestingly, the researchers noted that the rise of narcissistic male trolls has been spurred on by the current political climate, where a particularly narcissistic figure occupies the highest office and tweets incessantly. Such behavior underscores the antisocial nature of internet usage they studied.
“Individuals with narcissistic tendencies may react with hostility to negative comments,” explained social psychologist Clara Jensen, one of the co-authors of the study. This study, conducted by three female psychologists—Jensen, Sophia Black, and Lila Regan—was inspired by their own experiences with online trolling. It’s the first of its kind, providing concrete evidence of the link between narcissism and trolling.
Key Findings
The most compelling aspect of their research is the connection established between trolling and narcissism. Previously a conjecture, this study offers proof that when faced with criticism, narcissists often deflect blame onto others. The prevalence of male fragility and narcissism online is alarming, and women who challenge this behavior often find themselves under attack. Jensen added that hostile actions may serve to reinforce a sense of power and self-worth for these individuals.
While it should be noted that women can engage in trolling as well, the nature of male trolling tends to be more severe and personal, often involving attacks on a woman’s appearance or character. This is a reality many of us have witnessed firsthand.
Confronting the Issue
Unfortunately, there is no straightforward solution to this issue. We can’t simply remove all men from social media or subject them to a course on misogyny before allowing them to create accounts. Therefore, the best approach remains confronting such behavior directly and consistently. Not remaining silent is our strongest weapon against this prevalent issue.
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Conclusion
In summary, a recent study confirms that male trolls are more likely to exhibit narcissistic traits, a reality women have long known. By continuing to call out this behavior, we can take a stand against online harassment.