UNDERSTANDING GENDER TROLLING

The rise of online communities has brought to light new and

alarming forms of sexism, particularly through the phenomenon
of gender trolling. While trolling, as defined by internet studies
scholar Whitney Phillips, has long been present in internet
cultures, gender trolling stands out as a more sinister and
targeted variant. Unlike generic trolling, which aims primarily for
amusement or conflict, gender trolling often stems from sincere
beliefs held by the perpetrators. This essay aims to dissect the
distinct features of gender trolling and shed light on its prevalence
in various internet communities
Distinctive Features of Gender trolling
Gender trolling exhibits several key components that set it apart from
traditional forms of online trolling. Firstly, it frequently involves the
coordinated efforts of numerous individuals, overwhelming victims
with a barrage of attacks. These attacks, often numbering in the
hundreds per hour, can persist for extended periods, amplifying the
distress experienced by the targets. Moreover, gender trolling relies
heavily on gender-based insults, employing derogatory terms aimed
specifically at women to demean and humiliate them. This vicious
language extends to the realm of hate speech, with gender trolls
resorting to vile descriptions and threats of violent acts, typically
targeting the victim's physical and emotional well-being.
The Destructive Impact of Gender trolling
What makes gender trolling particularly destructive is the credible
threat component inherent in many of the attacks. Gender trolls
frequently issue rape threats, death threats, and threats of doxing,
exposing victims to real-life harm and harassment. By revealing
personal information such as home or work addresses, gender
trolls escalate the level of danger faced by their targets, instilling
fear and insecurity. Moreover, they may go as far as ordering
deliveries to the victim's residence, demonstrating a chilling
awareness of the victim's whereabouts and a willingness to pursue
offline repercussions for their online actions.
Addressing the Menace of Gender trolling
In conclusion, gender trolling represents a grave and escalating
threat to the safety and well-being of individuals, particularly
women, in online spaces. Its distinctive features, including
coordinated attacks, gender-based insults, vicious language, and
credible threats, paint a troubling picture of the extent to which
misogyny permeates digital communities. To combat gender
trolling effectively, there is an urgent need for heightened
awareness, proactive measures by online platforms, and robust
support systems for victims. Only by confronting this menace head-
on can we create safer and more inclusive online environments for
all.