Posted by galkeepinon on October 22, 2003, at 15:54:25
In reply to Re: Internet Trolling » galkeepinon, posted by Susan J on October 22, 2003, at 15:45:52
How do I tell if a poster is a troll? What if I'm not sure?
Consider the poster's prior posts (if any). If the post is out of character, he/she may just be in a bad mood, or the topic may have touched a nerve. If it's a new poster, he/she may not be familiar with board etiquette. Assume the best, and try responding with a polite, friendly message.
You'll generally be able to tell by their reaction whether they're a troll or not. Someone who's willing to negotiate, who backs down when called on his/her behavior, or apologizes, is not a troll. Trolls will argue "hello & welcome" if that's all they have to work with. If the poster responds in a trolly manner, do not continue the conversation.How do I avoid being labeled a troll?
The best way to keep from being considered a troll is to follow the posting guidelines and basic rules of courtesy. Remember, there is a person behind each post. Keep your criticisms to the writing; do not personally attack the writer. For example, "I noticed some spelling and grammar problems in your story. Here are a few examples…" is appropriate, whereas "Did you drop out of school in sixth grade? Your spelling sucks." is not.
A good rule of thumb: Don't post anything you wouldn't want someone to say to you, nor anything you wouldn't say to someone "in real life", i.e. to their face.
If you do post something in the heat of the moment, and later regret it, apologize, and then move on. Don't dwell on it, or beat yourself up about it.
*from Internet Trolls © 2001 by Timothy Campbell
:-) KNOWLEDGE IS POWER! :-)
poster:galkeepinon
thread:271878
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20031008/msgs/271984.html