Dealing with Social Media Trolling: A Guide for Creative Artists

They’re Like A**holes.

Opinions, that is (if you thought troll’ers, you said it, I didn’t have to). We have all heard the adage that "opinions are like a**holes, everybody has one," and to a certain extent, we do indeed have to start with this attitude.

In the digital age, social media has become an essential platform for creative artists to showcase their work, connect with fans, and build their personal brands. However, with the benefits of an online presence come the inevitable challenges, including the dark side of social media: trolling.

Trolling can take many forms, from negative comments and personal attacks to more insidious behaviors aimed at undermining confidence and creativity. For artists, whose work is often deeply personal, dealing with trolls can be particularly disheartening.

Here’s a guide to help creative artists navigate and manage social media trolling effectively:

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1. Understand the Nature of Trolls

Trolls thrive on eliciting emotional responses and stirring up conflict. They often target individuals who are visible and successful, aiming to undermine their confidence. Recognizing that trolls' comments are more about them than about you can be a crucial first step in not taking their words to heart.

Here is an example:

Mandy is a painter who recently posted a new piece of artwork on Instagram. The piece has received numerous positive comments and likes, and her followers are engaging with her post enthusiastically. However, among the praise, she notices a comment that says, "This is terrible. You call this art? My five-year-old could do better."

This comment is from someone Mandy has never interacted with before. Their profile has very few followers and no posts. Recognizing that this is likely a troll, Mandy remembers that trolls thrive on eliciting emotional responses and stirring up conflict. They often target individuals who are visible and successful, aiming to undermine their confidence.

Understanding this, Mandy reminds herself that the troll's comment is more about them than about her. They may be projecting their own insecurities, frustrations, or jealousy. By recognizing this, Mandy can take the first crucial step in not taking their words to heart. Instead of responding to the troll and giving them the attention they crave, she focuses on the positive feedback from her supportive followers and continues sharing her art with confidence.

2. Set Boundaries and Moderation Policies

Establish clear guidelines for acceptable behavior on your social media platforms. Most platforms allow you to filter comments and block specific words or phrases. Clearly state your policies on your profile and enforce them consistently. This not only helps maintain a positive environment but also sets a precedent that trolling will not be tolerated.

How to do this in practice:

Imagine you are a musician with a growing following on Instagram and Facebook. To maintain a positive and respectful community, you decide to establish clear guidelines for acceptable behavior on your social media platforms. Here’s how you can do this in practice:

Step 1: Create Community Guidelines

Draft a set of community guidelines that outline acceptable behavior and what will not be tolerated. Your guidelines might include:

• Respectful and constructive feedback is welcome.
• Hate speech, bullying, or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
• Spam and self-promotion without permission will be removed.
• Offensive language or inappropriate content will be deleted.

Step 2: Post the Guidelines on Your Profile

Add these guidelines to your social media profiles. On Instagram, you can include a brief version in your bio with a link to a more detailed version in your profile link. On Facebook, you can pin a post with your guidelines to the top of your page.

Instagram Bio Example:
"Welcome! Please respect our community. Guidelines: [Link to full guidelines]."

Facebook Pinned Post Example:
"Welcome to my page! Please read and follow our community guidelines to maintain a positive space for everyone. Respectful and constructive feedback is welcome. Hate speech, bullying, or harassment will not be tolerated. Thank you for your cooperation!"

Step 3: Use Filtering Tools

Utilize the comment filtering tools available on each platform to automatically block comments that contain offensive words or phrases. On Instagram, you can go to Settings > Privacy > Comments > Manual Filter to add specific words you want to block. On Facebook, go to Settings > General > Page Moderation to set up your filter list.

Step 4: Enforce the Guidelines Consistently

When someone violates your guidelines, take immediate action. If a user posts a hateful comment, delete it and consider blocking the user. If someone repeatedly disrespects the guidelines, warn them and then take further action if needed.

Negative Example Scenario:

A follower posts a rude comment on one of your Instagram videos: "This song is trash. You have no talent."

1. Delete the comment.
2. Send a direct message to the user, if appropriate: "Hi [Username], I welcome constructive feedback, but your recent comment violates our community guidelines. Please be respectful or your account will be blocked."

If the behavior continues, block the user from your profile.

Step 5: Reinforce Positive Engagement

Encourage positive interaction by highlighting and responding to constructive and supportive comments. Engage with your followers who contribute positively to your community, showing that respectful behavior is valued and appreciated.

Positive Engagement Example:

A follower comments: "I love this new song! The lyrics are so meaningful."

• Reply to the comment: "Thank you so much! I'm glad the lyrics resonated with you."
• Consider featuring positive comments in your stories or posts to reinforce the kind of engagement you want to see.

By establishing, communicating, and enforcing these guidelines, you create a safer, more supportive environment for your community. This proactive approach sets a clear precedent that trolling and negative behavior will not be tolerated, helping to foster a positive space for your followers and yourself.

3. Don’t Feed the Trolls

One of the most common pieces of advice is to avoid engaging with trolls. Responding to their comments can often escalate the situation and give them the attention they crave. Instead, focus on positive interactions and engaging with your supportive followers.

Here is an example of how to do this:

Imogen is a writer who recently shared a short story on their Facebook page. Their post receives a lot of positive feedback, but there is also a comment from a troll: "This story is a joke. You're a terrible writer. Give up already."

Recognizing that this comment is meant to provoke an emotional reaction and create conflict, Imogen decides to avoid engaging with the troll. Instead of replying to them, they delete the comment and block the user from their page to prevent further negativity.
Imogen then shift their attention to the supportive comments from their genuine followers. One comment reads: "I loved your story! Your characters are so well-developed and relatable." Imogen replies with, "Thank you so much! I'm really glad you enjoyed the story and connected with the characters."

To further reinforce positive interactions, Imogen shares a screenshot of the positive comment to their Instagram story with a thank-you message: "I appreciate all the love and support from my readers! 💖" They also start a discussion with their followers about their story, asking, "What did you think about the ending? I'd love to hear your thoughts!"

Encouraging constructive conversations, Imogen invites their followers to share their opinions and feedback respectfully. They post a follow-up asking, "I’m working on my next story and would love to hear what themes or characters you’d like to see more of."

By ignoring the troll and focusing on engaging with your supportive followers, you prevent escalation and reinforce a positive and constructive community around your work. This approach helps maintain your mental well-being and keeps the focus on the meaningful interactions that truly matter.

4. Use Blocking and Reporting Tools

Most social media platforms have features that allow you to block or report users who are harassing or abusive. Utilize these tools to remove trolls from your online space. Reporting them also helps the platform take action against persistent offenders, protecting not only you but the broader community. Number 2, Step 4 of this guide has an example of how you can do this.

5. Lean on Your Support Network

Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, and fellow artists for support. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can be incredibly validating and reassuring. Your community can also help by reporting trolls and supporting positive conversations on your page.

Here is an example of how to do this:

Carl is a photographer who recently posted a series of photos on Instagram. While he receives positive comments, a troll leaves a hurtful remark: "These photos are amateurish and boring. You should quit photography."

Feeling upset, Carl decides not to handle this alone. He reaches out to your close friend, who is also a photographer, and shares the troll's comment. His friend listens and reassures him, reminding Carl of his talent and the many positive comments he received. Carl’s friend also shares his own experiences with trolls, making Carl feel less isolated.

Next, Carl talks to his family about the situation. They offer emotional support and encourage him to focus on the positive feedback rather than the negative comment.

Carl also decides to reach out to a group of fellow artists in an online community he belongs to. Sharing his experience, he finds that many of them have faced similar situations. They offer advice on how to deal with trolls and provide moral support.

In addition to this emotional support, some of Carl’s friends and fellow artists visit his Instagram page and report the troll’s comment. They leave positive comments on his post to help drown out the negativity. One friend comments, "Your photos are stunning! You have such a unique eye for capturing beauty."

By reaching out to friends, family, and fellow artists, Carl receives validation and reassurance, which helps him feel better and stay motivated. His community's support in reporting the troll and boosting positive conversations on his page reinforces a sense of solidarity and positivity, helping him move past the negative experience.

6. Focus on Constructive Criticism

Not all negative feedback is trolling. It’s important to differentiate between malicious trolling and constructive criticism. Use genuine feedback to improve your work, and don’t let the negativity overshadow the valuable insights you can gain from your audience.

Here is an example of how to do this :

Spense is a digital artist who recently posted a new piece of artwork on his DeviantArt profile. Alongside numerous positive comments, he received two pieces of feedback:

1. "This is awful. You have no talent. Stop trying."
2. "I like your concept, but the proportions of the characters seem a bit off. Maybe try adjusting the angles for a more balanced look."

The first comment is a clear example of trolling. It is harsh, unconstructive, and intended to provoke an emotional response. Recognizing this, Spense decides to ignore the comment and remove it from his profile.

The second comment, however, is constructive criticism. While it points out a flaw in his work, it does so in a respectful and helpful manner. Instead of feeling discouraged, Spense considers the feedback and sees it as an opportunity for growth. He replies to the commenter with appreciation: "Thank you for your feedback! I’ll definitely work on the proportions and angles to improve my future pieces."

Taking the constructive criticism to heart, Spense revisits his artwork and experiment with adjusting the character proportions and angles. After making some changes, he notices a significant improvement in the overall balance and appearance of his piece.

He decides to share the updated version of his artwork along with a message to his followers: "Thanks to some valuable feedback, I’ve made a few adjustments to this piece. Let me know what you think of the changes!"

By differentiating between malicious trolling and constructive criticism, you are able to use genuine feedback to enhance your skills and improve your work. This approach helps you not to let negativity overshadow the valuable insights you can gain from your audience, ultimately contributing to your growth as an artist.

7. Prioritize Self-Care

Dealing with trolls can be emotionally draining. Prioritize self-care by taking breaks from social media when needed. Engage in activities that rejuvenate you and help you stay grounded. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your creative output.

Here is an example of how to do this:

Joe is a graphic designer who regularly posts artwork on their website to showcase their portfolio. Recently, one of Joe’s posts attracted a troll who commented: "Your designs are garbage. You should quit and find a real job."

Feeling upset and frustrated, Joe recognizes the emotional toll that dealing with trolls can take. They decide to prioritize self-care by taking a break from social media for a day. Instead of logging into their website, Joe spends time outdoors, taking a long walk in the park to clear their mind.

During their break, Joe engages in activities that rejuvenate them. They immerse themself in a new graphic design project that excites them, focusing on their passion for creativity without the pressure of online feedback.

In the evening, Joe connects with a close friend over video call. They share their experience with the troll and how it made them feel. Their friend listens attentively and offers words of encouragement, reminding Joe of their talent and the positive impact their designs have had on others.

Reflecting on their friend's support and the rejuvenating day they’ve had, Joe realizes the importance of balancing their creative output with their mental health. They make a commitment to set boundaries for themself on social media, prioritizing positive interactions and not letting negative comments affect their self-esteem.

Returning to their website the next day with a refreshed mindset, Joe continues to share their artwork confidently. They remind themself that their mental health is just as important as their creative endeavors, and they refuse to let trolls derail their passion and progress as a graphic designer.

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If trolling significantly impacts your mental health, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor. Professionals can provide strategies and coping mechanisms to manage the stress and emotional toll that trolling can take.

As a therapist specializing in supporting creative individuals facing these challenges, I'm here to help. Whether you need a listening ear, guidance on navigating online negativity, or strategies to protect your mental well-being, I invite you to book a free consultation with me or reach out via email. Together, we can work towards ensuring that your online experiences support rather than detract from your overall well-being.

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9. Remember, Trolls Are Not Constructive

It's important to remember that those who have time to troll are likely not constructive. Trolls often project their own insecurities and frustrations onto others, and their comments are seldom rooted in genuine concern, educated feedback, and/or criticism. Understanding this can help you detach emotionally from their negativity and focus on feedback from those who genuinely support and appreciate your work.

Here is an example of who might be hiding behind the screen.

Example: Profile of a Troll

Imagine encountering a typical troll online who frequents art-related forums and social media platforms. Let's call them "NegativeNed."

NegativeNed is a prolific commenter known for their harsh and derogatory remarks on artists' posts. They often leave comments like:

"Your art is trash. You clearly have no talent."

NegativeNed's profile reveals little personal information, and their posts are often anonymous or created under pseudonyms. They have a history of engaging in heated arguments and targeting individuals who receive positive attention for their work.

NegativeNed's comments reflect their underlying insecurities and frustrations. They may harbor jealousy towards artists who receive recognition or struggle with their own creative endeavors. Instead of offering constructive feedback, NegativeNed's remarks are intended to provoke and undermine confidence.

Understanding NegativeNed's profile helps artists detach emotionally from their negativity. Artists can recognize that NegativeNed's comments are not rooted in genuine concern, educated feedback, or constructive criticism. NegativeNed doesn’t have anything for you. NegativeNed doesn’t have anything you need, going on. Investing in NegativeNed does not help us grow.

Remember, engaging with trolls like NegativeNed rarely leads to productive outcomes. It's more beneficial to surround oneself with a supportive community and seek genuine feedback that contributes positively to artistic growth and development. By focusing on feedback from supportive and constructive sources, artists can maintain their emotional well-being and continue to grow creatively.

10. Remember Your Purpose

Remind yourself why you create art and share it with the world. Focus on the joy and fulfillment it brings you and your audience. Trolls are a small, often insignificant part of your broader journey as an artist.

Here is a lighthearted example:

Picture this: You, the esteemed artist extraordinaire, have just unveiled your latest masterpiece—a whimsical painting of a cosmic llama riding a rainbow through a field of glittering cheese. As expected, your fans shower you with adoration and praise, proclaiming it a stroke of genius.

But wait! Amidst the sea of praise, a wild troll appears. Let's call them "CynicalCritic."

CynicalCritic, with their impeccable taste in blandness, scoffs at your creation: "This is utterly absurd. Llamas don't ride rainbows—they eat grass. Stick to reality, amateur!"

Fear not, dear artist! Take a deep breath and remember why you create art in the first place. Your cosmic llama isn't just about adhering to the mundane laws of nature; it's about unleashing your imagination and sharing joy with those who appreciate a sprinkle of surrealism in their lives.

While CynicalCritic may try to rain on your glittery cheese parade, their critique is but a speck of dust in the vast cosmos of your artistic journey. Your art is not just a reflection of reality—it's a celebration of creativity, whimsy, and the uncharted realms of the mind.

So, revel in the joy and fulfillment your art brings to you and your audience. Let the trolls grumble in their dimly lit caves of cynicism while you continue to paint your cosmic llamas, ride your rainbows, and sprinkle glittery cheese across the universe.

Remember, dear artist, trolls are but tiny blips on your radar of artistic greatness. Keep creating, keep dreaming, and keep shining brightly in a world that desperately needs your unique vision.

In Conclusion: Only your a**hole matters

Social media trolling is an unfortunate reality for many creative artists, but it doesn’t have to overshadow your work or well-being. The negativity of trolls is a reflection of their own struggles, not a measure of your worth or talent.

By setting boundaries, leveraging support systems, and focusing on positive engagement, you can create a healthier and more supportive online environment.

Your mental health is paramount, and protecting it is an act of self-love and resilience. Taking breaks from social media, engaging in self-care practices, and seeking professional help when needed are crucial steps in maintaining your well-being.

Remember that your creativity is a unique and invaluable gift, and the world needs your voice and vision.

Empower yourself by surrounding yourself with positive influences and constructive feedback. Lean on your support network and allow them to uplift you when you need it most. By fostering a community of encouragement and respect, you not only protect yourself from the negativity of trolls but also inspire others to do the same.

Your journey as a creative artist is about more than just surviving the digital landscape; it’s about thriving and sharing your passion with the world. Embrace your strengths, celebrate your achievements, and continue to create with confidence. The impact of your art extends far beyond the reach of any troll, touching the lives of those who truly appreciate and resonate with your work.

In the end, the power of your creativity, resilience, and mental health will always outshine the darkness of trolling.

Keep creating, keep shining, and let your art be a testament to your strength and spirit. You have the power to transform negativity into fuel for your artistic journey, making your voice louder and your impact greater.

Stay true to yourself, and let your creativity flourish in a world that needs your unique perspective.

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More Articles Like Trolling for Creatives

Creative Hierarchy of Needs,  Psychology of Creativity, Crisis of Meaning, Coaching Creative People, Mental Health and Creativity, Creative People, Creative Personality and Anxiety, Make Time for Art, A Creative Personality Snapshot, Therapy for Creatives: Creating Holistically, Therapy Skills for Creatives: Reducing Anxiety, Your Creative Life Purpose, 3 Steps for Creatives During a Crisis


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