Poster #138 - “It’s Just for Fun”: Explaining Trolling Participation Among Young Adults Using Self-Control and Routine Activities

• In Event: ASC Poster Session I

Abstract

Trolling, described as harassing or purposely upsetting another individual online for the purpose of provoking a response, often takes place due to the anonymity provided by online platforms. With some considering trolling as a form of cyberbullying, there is still a question as to why some individuals engage in trolling behavior in online communities while others refrain from this form of deviance. Supported by Gottfredson and Hirschi’s general theory of crime and Cohen and Felson’s routine activities theory, the current study posits that a mixture of environmental factors may result in online trolling behaviors. Using self-report data collected from a sample of 1,500 young adults (18-25 years old), this study sought to answer if low self-control and online routine activities impact the likelihood of engaging in trolling behavior. The findings revealed that individuals with lower levels of self-control were more likely to engage in trolling behaviors. Identifying as female was negatively associated with trolling participation, while identifying as African American or another race was positively associated with trolling participation (compared to identifying as White). Additionally, those who engaged in illegal downloading and social network hacking had an increased likelihood of engaging in online trolling, with this behavior decreasing as respondents age.

Authors

• Erica Fissel, ICF

• Michelle E. Protas, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

• Joseph L. Nedelec, University of Cincinnati