Wikipedia Intent of a Troll

Trolls can be existing members of a community that rarely post and often contribute no useful information to the thread, but instead make argumentative posts in an attempt to discredit another person, concentrating almost exclusively on facts irrelevant to the point of the conversation, with the intent of provoking a reaction from others. The key element under attack by a troll is known only to the troll.

We have all seen them but may not have known or understood the term, “Troll.” Perhaps you frequent a blog and every now and then see hateful remarks directed towards the author. Or you might even visit a forum on a regular basis and and come across someone who wants to create distress to the community. Wherever it is that you find these people one thing remains the same, they love to create trouble.
Recently I came across a troll and figured that there must be a way to deal with such individuals. A process to take care of them and go on with life.

Ignore the Troll

Silence is always the most powerful weapon to handle childish behavior. Rather than let your first emotional response get out, just refrain and let the dust settle. In most cases everyone will also ignore unwanted behavior because it doesn’t get anybody anywhere.

Confront the Troll

For this response to work you must remain rational. Someone else reading your response will realize how level headed your reaction is. If you lose your cool, you are giving the Troll what it wants and playing into its game.

Silence the Troll

Keeping the Troll from voicing its opinion is probably the easiest way to keep it at bay. But you have to make sure that you stay on top of things. This involves keeping up on your forum or blog. Whenever the Troll posts something nasty, simply delete it.

Kill the Troll

This method involves using MapQuest, a black van, and a tube sock full of batteries… Just kidding! I think it would be best if we avoid prison.

So there you have it.  A few methods towards the end of nasty Troll input.  If you find yourself fighting another battle with an unstoppable Troll, just keep one thing in mind.  This is a person who is putting time and effort into causing you stress.  On the other hand, they are also showing an interest in your site by spending their time this way.

These methods are not the end all be all, so if you have any others please feel free to share…