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Internet Trolling and Digital Citizenship

Internet trolling, a phenomenon that has become increasingly prevalent in digital spaces. While some consider trolling a harmless joke, it often escalates into harassment, misinformation, and toxic online environments. Understanding why people troll and how to respond effectively is essential for maintaining healthy, respectful digital communities.

What is Internet Trolling?

A person who intentionally offends, provokes, or harasses others online, usually in an effort to cause agitation or evoke strong feelings, is known as an internet troll (PCMag, n.d.). Common types of trolling include disseminating inaccurate or misleading content, doxxing (publishing private information), and flaming (making hostile comments). While some trolls aim to divert conversations for amusement, others target particular people, including activists, public personalities, and underrepresented groups (BBC News, 2024).

Why Do People Troll?

The motivations behind trolling vary, but researchers suggest several key factors. Anonymity allows trolls to hide behind fake profiles, making them feel detached from real-world consequences (Webroot, 2024). Some trolls engage in this behavior for power and control, attempting to dominate online discussions by silencing others. Others see trolling as a form of entertainment, enjoying the chaos they create. Furthermore, political or ideological trolls may purposefully disseminate false information in an effort to sway public opinion and sow discord (BBC News, 2024). Research has connected narcissism and a lack of empathy to trolling behavior; some trolls even acknowledge that they take pleasure in upsetting other people (Webroot, 2024).

The Impact of Trolling

Trolling damages online communities, leading to:

Emotional Harm – Victims experience stress, anxiety, and self-doubt.

Misinformation Spread – Political trolls manipulate public opinion.

Silencing of Voices – Many people withdraw from online discussions due to trolling.

Example: High-profile individuals, especially women and activists, often face extreme trolling, forcing them off social media (BBC News, 2024).

How to Deal with Trolls?

To combat trolling, experts recommend several strategies. Avoid engaging with trolls, as arguing only gives them more attention and encourages their behavior (Webroot, 2024). Utilizing platform tools such as blocking, muting, and reporting trolls can help reduce their impact. Promoting digital literacy is also essential since users can avoid being duped by inaccurate or provocative content once they are aware of trolling strategies. Although many contend that social media companies should do more to stop online harassment, they do have a role in combating trolling (BBC News, 2024).

Trolling is more than simply an online joke; it has real-world repercussions that impact digital safety, public debate, and mental health. It is our duty as digital citizens to expose inappropriate conduct, assist those impacted, and promote safer online environments. We can help create a more upbeat and welcoming online culture by encouraging civil discourse and lessening the impact of trolls.

Reference

Internet trolls - BBC News. (n.d.). Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/topics/c7mjq44p743t.

‌Webroot.com. (2025). Webroot. [online] Available at: https://www.webroot.com/us/en/resources/tips-articles/you-cant-win-an-argument-with-a-troll?srsltid=AfmBOoo0N9Q0pyvwCjLkswnfX__WqiTA1fsvp0FW5sT5VCi4nz46tY2X [Accessed 23 Mar. 2025].

PCMAG. (n.d.). Definition of Internet troll. [online] Available at: https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/internet-troll.

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The Evolution of Gaming Culture

Gaming has evolved from arcades to online multiplayer experiences, changing how players interact. Understanding this evolution helps explain how gaming communities form and function.

Arcade & Local Multiplayer (1970s-1990s)

Arcade games (Pac-Man, Space Invaders) established gaming as a social activity, with players competing for high scores.

Local multiplayer (Mario Kart, Street Fighter II) brought friends together for cooperative and competitive gaming on home consoles.

Online Multiplayer & Digital Communities (2000s-Present)

The introduction of networked gaming (World of Warcraft, Counter-Strike) enabled players to connect worldwide.

Online forums, Discord servers, and Reddit communities became hubs for gamers to share experiences, tips, and strategies.

Gaming culture, once male-dominated, has become more inclusive, with women, LGBTQ+ gamers, and older players challenging traditional stereotypes (Jenkins, 2006).

Gaming Communities: Social Interaction in Games

Gaming communities are social groups formed around shared gaming interests. These communities are built on Fluidity, Knowledge Sharing and Identity & Belonging.

Examples of Gaming Communities:

Esports Communities – Competitive gaming teams (League of Legends, Dota 2).

Modding Communities – Fans modify and extend games (Skyrim, Minecraft).

Fan & Roleplaying Communities – Players create fan fiction, art, and roleplay servers (Stardew Valley, The Sims).

The Rise of Live Streaming and Esports

Gaming is no longer just about playing it’s about watching and engaging with the introduction of game streaming platform like

Twitch: The biggest live gaming streaming network including chat, donations, and memberships.

YouTube Gaming – Integrated with YouTube’s video-sharing features.

Facebook Gaming – Allows users to stream directly to their Facebook friends.

Esports: The Professional Side of Gaming

Esports has transformed gaming into a competitive industry, with multimillion-dollar tournaments like League of Legends World Championship and Dota 2’s The International attract millions of viewers worldwide along side with Pro Gamer that became a celebrity just from playing videogames.

Knowledge Communities & Modding Culture

Knowledge sharing is key to gaming culture. Gamers collaborate on platforms like

Stardew Valley Wiki where fans contribute game guides and farming tips.

Steam Discussions - Forums where players share strategies and troubleshoot issues.

Modding (game modification) also plays a huge role in extending a game’s lifespan. An example on this is the game The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim which is famous for user-generated mods, from graphical improvements to new quests.

These practices demonstrate how players actively shape the gaming industry.

A social and cultural movement, gaming is more than just a recreational activity. The popularity of esports, social gaming, and live streaming demonstrates that gaming may foster creativity, connections, and professional development.

Reference

Baoill, A.Ó. (2007). Jenkins, H. (2006). Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide. New York: New York University Press. 336 pp. $29.95 (hardbound). Social Science Computer Review, [online] 26(2), pp.252–254. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/0894439307306088.

Gov.wales. (2022). Video gaming and esports the differences and distinctions in detail - Hwb. [online] Available at: https://hwb.gov.wales/keeping-safe-online/views-from-the-experts/video-gaming-and-esports-the-differences-and-distinctions-in-detail.

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What are AR Filters?

AR filters change face features or add interactive effects by superimposing virtual elements onto the real world. With over 700 million monthly users, filters have become an essential component of self-presentation on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. While certain filters, especially beauty filters, alter face characteristics to conform to idealized beauty standards, others, like dog ears or fantasy effects, are more whimsical.

The Impact of Beauty Filters

Beauty filters standardize beauty by frequently altering jawlines, increasing lips, smoothing skin, and shrinking noses. According to Rajanala et al. (2018), this leads to Snapchat Dysmorphia, a condition in which people seek plastic surgery to look more like their filtered selves. According to studies, using filters frequently is associated with higher levels of self-objectification and body dissatisfaction (Burnell et al., 2021). Insecurities are exacerbated by social media's emphasis on "perfected" looks, particularly among younger users.

Theories & Critical Reflections

Several theories help us understand the impact of AR filters:

Social Comparison Theory: Users compare themselves to idealized online images, often feeling inadequate.

Objectification Theory: Filters encourage people to see their bodies as objects needing improvement.

Digital-Forensic Gaze: There is growing scrutiny of selfies to determine their "authenticity," leading to unrealistic expectations of natural beauty.

AI-powered filters are becoming more realistic and harder to detect, extending beyond social media into finance, retail, and identity verification. Apps like Alipay and TikTok already integrate beauty-enhancing technology, reinforcing beauty ideals even in professional spaces. While AR filters can foster self-expression and fun, they also blur the line between reality and digital perfection, shaping how we see ourselves and others.

Final Thoughts

These days, filters are more than simply digital accessories; they influence how people view themselves, standards of beauty, and even medical choices. As AR technology develops, it's critical to consider its effects and promote authenticity and diversity of the body in digital environments.

Reference

Burnell, K., Kurup, A.R. and Underwood, M.K. (2021). Snapchat lenses and body image concerns. New Media & Society, [online] 24(9), p.146144482199303. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444821993038.

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Digital Citizenship and Body Image on Social Media

Aesthetic Templates and Social Media

Popular beauty trends and visual styles that people imitate online are referred to as aesthetic templates. These models have an impact on how people alter their appearance through Filters, photo editing apps, and digital alterations alongside with popular poses and facial expressions, Beauty trends that push individuals towards plastic surgery, excessive fitness routines, and extreme dieting (Dorfman et al., 2018).

Because social media creates an attention economy, users are under pressure to follow aesthetically pleasing trends in order to increase their engagement, likes, and followers.

Microcelebrity Culture and Aesthetic Labor

Microcelebrity refers to individuals branding themselves online for influence and visibility. According to Senft (2012), this phenomena reinforces unattainable beauty standards by encouraging users to build an idealized self-image (Senft, 2012). Important features include of:

Aesthetic labor: The work required to keep up a pleasing online persona, including digital retouching, makeup, and styling (Dean, 2005).

Self-promotion and hypervisibility: Influencers alter their appearance to conform to beauty standards, which has an impact on how their audience perceives success and self-worth (Duffy, 2017).

Effects on mental health: Anxiety, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction are caused by the pressure to maintain flawless appearances (Carrotte et al., 2017).

Pornification and Gendered Beauty Standards

The concept of pornification describes the increasing trend of sexualized self-presentation on social media. This affects both men and women, reinforcing narrow beauty ideals that Women's beauty templates place a strong emphasis on big lips, slender waists, and facial symmetry while the emphasis of men's beauty templates is on domination, strength, and muscularity (Tyler & Quek, 2016).

Because social media monetizes attention, users are driven to exhibit themselves in a sexualized, hyper-attractive manner in order to increase engagement.

Public Health Impact: The Body Image Crisis

Social media contributes to a widespread body image crisis, leading to:

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), where individuals obsess over perceived flaws

Increased cosmetic surgery rates, as influencers normalize surgical enhancements

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, fueled by unattainable body ideals

We can acknowledge that the majority of social media photos are significantly altered or filtered, which promotes unattainable beauty standards, and fight back against their detrimental effects. To assist viewers evaluate content critically and consider the impact of beauty trends, media literacy should be promoted. Regulating influencer content can also encourage platforms and brands to support body diversity instead of unachievable ideal. Most importantly, fostering self-acceptance by celebrating authenticity over curated online appearances can help create a healthier digital environment.

Reference

Dorfman, R.G., Vaca, E.E., Mahmood, E., Fine, N.A. and Schierle, C.F. (2017). Plastic Surgery-Related Hashtag Utilization on Instagram: Implications for Education and Marketing. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(3), pp.332–338. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjx120.

Proquest.com. (2025). Redirecting. [online] Available at: https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/swin/detail.action?docID=3422436&pq-origsite=primo [Accessed 23 Mar. 2025].

Dean, D. (2005). Recruiting a self: Women performers and aesthetic labour. Work, Employment and Society, 19(4), pp.761–774. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/0950017005058061.

Proquest.com. (2025). Sign in to your account. [online] Available at: https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/swin/reader.action?docID=4867576&ppg=1 [Accessed 23 Mar. 2025].

Proquest.com. (2025). Redirecting. [online] Available at: https://www.proquest.com/docview/2885523331?accountid=14205&pq-origsite=primo&sourcetype=Scholarly%20Journals [Accessed 23 Mar. 2025].

Proquest.com. (2025). Redirecting. [online] Available at: https://www.proquest.com/docview/2314219966?pq-origsite=primo&accountid=14205&sourcetype=Scholarly%20Journals [Accessed 23 Mar. 2025].

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What is Digital Citizenship?

The term "digital citizenship" describes the ethical and responsible use of technology, encouraging critical thinking, digital literacy, and knowledge of one's rights and obligations when using the internet. An accountable online person respects people online by abstaining from harassment, cyberbullying, and false information, Acts responsibly and actively engages in debates and campaigns that support social change.

Movements like #PayUp, which pushed fashion companies to compensate garment workers during COVID-19, and Black Lives Matter (BLM), which mobilized millions of people globally through social media, demonstrate the strength of digital activism.

The Slow Fashion Movement

In contrast to the environmental and social harm caused by rapid fashion, slow fashion encourages ethical production, thoughtful consumption, and sustainability. The movement supports:

sustainable materials include textiles that are biodegradable, recycled, or organic.

Fair pay and secure working conditions are guaranteed by ethical labor practices.

Prioritize quality over quantity and promote enduring purchases over fads.

Reducing waste by properly disposing of clothing, upcycling, and thrifting

With 10% of global carbon emissions and massive water use, the fashion sector is one of the biggest pollutants in the world (Brewer, 2019). Many garment workers continue to endure inadequate pay and hazardous working conditions as a result of exploitative labor (Geiger & Keller, 2018).

How Digital Citizenship Supports Slow Fashion

Social media gives customers the authority to demand sustainability and hold companies responsible. Digital citizens are able to:

Raise awareness about unethical labor practices and environmental damage.

Expose greenwashing, where brands falsely claim sustainability.

Encourage conscientious consumption and moral purchasing practices.

Prominent influencers, such as Venetia La Manna and Kristen Leo, use their platforms to highlight the unethical practices of fast fashion. Campaigns like #WhoMadeMyClothes put pressure on brands to reveal their labor policies and demand supply chain transparency.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Fashion

CSR places a strong emphasis on companies' moral obligations, such as protecting the environment and using fair labor practices. Since transparency is now a major consideration when making purchases, businesses that include sustainability into their operations win over customers' trust (Kopnina, 2019). However, many brands continue to take advantage of legal loopholes in order to sustain earnings in the absence of regulatory action.

In the struggle for ethical consumption, slow fashion and digital citizenship collide. People may significantly alter the fashion business by using social media, endorsing eco-friendly companies, and holding corporations accountable.

Reference

Brewer, M.K. (2019). Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility. Laws, 8(4), p.24. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/laws8040024.

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Chi, T., Gerard, J., Yu, Y. and Wang, Y. (2021). A study of U.S. consumers’ intention to purchase slow fashion apparel: understanding the key determinants. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, 14(1), pp.101–112. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/17543266.2021.1872714.

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Geiger, S.M. and Keller, J. (2017). Shopping for Clothes and Sensitivity to the Suffering of Others: The Role of Compassion and Values in Sustainable Fashion Consumption. Environment and Behavior, 50(10), pp.1119–1144. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916517732109.

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Kopnina, H. (2019). Green-washing or best case practices? Using circular economy and Cradle to Cradle case studies in business education. Journal of Cleaner Production, 219, pp.613–621. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.02.005.

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Platformization: How Digital Platforms Shape Our Online Experience

Originally an open, decentralized area, the internet is now dominated by strong platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. The way digital platforms organize online relationships, economy, and cultural output is referred to as platformization. Platformization creates questions regarding ownership, monetization, and digital labor even as it presents new chances for connection and content creation.

What is Platformization?

Platformization is the process by which large digital corporations combine many services, data systems, and user interactions into a single ecosystem. Today's internet is primarily governed by a small number of powerful platforms that establish the guidelines for visibility, monetization, and interaction, in contrast to early web models that promoted independent websites and decentralized involvement.

Platforms provide visibility and revenue-generating options for creators, but frequently at a price. What content is promoted is determined by algorithms, which also affects trends and restricts organic reach. For instance, YouTube's demonetization procedures have drawn criticism for forcing creators to rely on opaque algorithms for financial support (Bucher, 2018). The For You Page on TikTok also chooses which videos become viral, demonstrating the effectiveness of platform-driven marketing.

User Data and Platform Control

Platformization also brings up privacy and data ownership issues. In order to increase engagement and personalize advertisements, social media corporations gather a great deal of user data, raising concerns about digital autonomy and surveillance (Van Dijck, 2013). The power imbalance between platforms and their viewers gets worse by the fact that users frequently have little choice over how their data is used.

Discussions concerning legislation, platform equity, and creator rights are becoming more and more significant as platforms continue to rule the digital economy. Platformization has increased digital options, but it has also strengthened corporate control over online environments, influencing our online interactions, creations, and consumption patterns.

Reference:

Jose van Dijck (2013) The Culture of Connectivity : A Critical History of Social Media. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 

Sinclair, J. (2019). If … Then: Algorithmic Power and Politics. Journal of Communication, 69(3), pp.E4–E6. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/joc/jqz007.

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Reality TV: Entertainment or Exploitation?

With its blend of drama, competitiveness, and unscripted storytelling, reality television has emerged as one of the most popular media genres of our time. While some believe that reality TV encourages social interaction and entertainment, others condemn it for taking advantage of contestants and feeding unfavorable stereotypes.

The Appeal of Reality TV

The distinction between fact and fiction is frequently blurred by reality TV, which thrives on viewer interaction. Traveling and emotional commitment are key components of shows like Survivor, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, and Love Island, which immerse viewers in the private lives of participants or celebrities (Hill, 2005). The appeal of reality TV, according to academics, stems from its relatability when viewers witness regular people succeeding or becoming famous, they feel more approachable. Furthermore, viewer connection is strengthened by audience interaction, such as voting or participating in social media debates (Andrejevic, 2004).

Manufactured Reality and Stereotypes

Reality TV is extremely curated even if it is unscripted. To increase drama, producers alter video through editing, casting choices, and story construction (Escoffery, 2006). This has raised questions about the perpetuation of stereotypes, particularly in programs that highlight interactions based on gender, ethnicity, or class. For instance, reality dating programs reinforce traditional gender roles by frequently depicting women as hypersexualized or competitive. In a similar vein, certain reality shows exaggerate cultural practices, which misrepresents and exploits vulnerable communities.

Ethical Concerns and Exploitation

Due to their abrupt exposure to celebrities, many reality TV contestants experience privacy violations and mental health issues. According to studies, competitors on competitive reality programs frequently deal with post-show issues, emotional discomfort, and online harassment (Ouellette & Hay, 2008). Since many reality TV stars receive inadequate compensation despite their shows making enormous profits, the lack of labor safeguards for them further muddies the moral argument.

Conclusion

Reality television is still a significant influence on contemporary media, influencing how viewers interact with both entertainment and societal concerns. However, the darker side of this seemingly innocent genre is brought to light by its potential for exploitation, stereotype reinforcement, and ethical issues. Even though reality TV is still developing, it poses significant queries regarding how to strike a balance between duty and entertainment in media creation.

Reference:

Escoffery, DS (ed.) 2006, How Real Is Reality TV? : Essays on Representation and Truth, McFarland & Company, Incorporated Publishers, Jefferson.

Hill, A 2005, Reality TV : Factual Entertainment and Television Audiences, Taylor & Francis Group, Oxford.

Mark Andrejevic (2004) Reality TV : The Work of Being Watched. Lanham, Md: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers (Critical Media Studies). 

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How Does Tumblr Function as a Digital Community?

With features like tagging, reblogging, and anonymous conversations, Tumblr is a unique social media platform that promotes online communities. Tumblr relies on user-driven content circulation, niche communities, and participatory culture, unlike sites like Instagram or TikTok which depend heavily on algorithms.

Participatory Culture & Micro-Communities

According to Henry Jenkins (2006), participatory culture is a setting in which people actively produce, modify, and distribute content rather than just consuming it. This is exemplified by Tumblr, which lets users create unique content like art, GIFs, and memes, interact with fandoms, and construct storylines. Community ties are strengthened by the platform's thriving user-generated content and collaborative storytelling (McCracken, 2017).

Anonymity and Identity Exploration

Tumblr enables self-expression without fear of societal criticism by supporting anonymity, in contrast to sites that prioritize real-name policy. For underrepresented groups, including LGBTQ+ users, who view Tumblr as a secure environment for activism and identity development, this is especially advantageous. This flexibility is further reinforced by the capability of creating many blogs under distinct personalities.

Affinity Spaces and Niche Communities

According to James Paul Gee (2004), "affinity spaces" are places where people engage not through personal connections but rather through common interests. This is best demonstrated by Tumblr's numerous subcultures, which include social justice groups, fandoms, and artistic blogs. Discussions can develop naturally as a result of user interaction through discourse-driven postings and tags.

Conclusion

Tumblr functions as a digital community by fostering participatory culture, providing anonymity for self-expression, and supporting niche spaces for discussion. Its user-driven content model makes it an important platform for creative and subcultural engagement, setting it apart from other social networks.

Reference:

Gee, JP 2004, Situated Language and Learning : A Critique of Traditional Schooling, Taylor & Francis Group, Oxford. Available from: ProQuest Ebook Central. [16 February 2025].

Jenkins, H 2006, Convergence Culture : Where Old and New Media Collide, New York University Press, New York. Available from: ProQuest Ebook Central. [16 February 2025].