PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF RELIGIOUS TROLLING ON STUDENTS' WELL-BEING ON SOCIAL MEDIA: A CASE STUDY OF NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY KEFFI

PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF RELIGIOUS TROLLING ON STUDENTS' WELL-BEING ON SOCIAL MEDIA: A CASE STUDY OF NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY KEFFI

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

In this day and age, social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp have evolved into indispensable components of the lives of students. In addition to providing outlets for communication and pleasure, these platforms also provide educational opportunities. One study conducted by the Pew Research Centre in 2021 found that ninety percent of adolescents between the ages of thirteen and seventeen make use of social media platforms. This represents a significant majority of the adolescents. In addition, a significant number of these adolescents are active on social media platforms on a daily basis. Students in higher education institutions use social media platforms for academic cooperation, social engagement, and staying updated about current events. This demonstrates the widespread use of social media in higher education institutions. According to Smith and Anderson (2018), the use of social media has profoundly changed the way in which students engage with one another, resulting in the formation of online communities that transcend geographical regions.

Despite this, there are several drawbacks associated with the extensive use of this resource resource. Students are put in danger of being subjected to a wide variety of forms of online abuse, including religious trolling, due to the fact that social media platforms facilitate communication and the exchange of information. Due to the fact that these platforms are participatory in nature, they make it easier for both positive and negative content to spread quickly. As a result, students are more likely to be exposed to interactions that are harmful to their mental health and overall well-being (Junco, 2012).

It is the deliberate act of disseminating words that are offensive, rude, or provocative with the intention of targeting individuals or organisations based on their religious views. This is what is known as religious trolling. One of the distinguishing characteristics of this form of cyberbullying is that it is intentionally designed to provoke emotional distress and conflict within religious communities. According to Phillips (2015), religious trolls commonly utilise sensitive religious topics, rites, and persons in order to incite conflict and elicit powerful emotional responses from their audience.

The intricate and varied nature of religious trolling gives it its distinguishing characteristics. Overt acts of aggression, such as making unpleasant statements and indulging in hate speech, are included in this category. Additionally, more covert strategies, such as spreading false information and producing content that creates division, are also included in this category. It is sometimes easier for trolls to carry out these crimes because of the anonymity and widespread reach of social media platforms, which allows them to attack victims without immediate consequences. Having the ability to remain anonymous gives people the ability to express feelings that they might otherwise choose to keep to themselves during face-to-face interactions, which in turn makes the problem more severe (Jane, 2015).

There is a wide range of actions that fall under the umbrella of religious trolling. These behaviours include everything from crude and explicit remarks to intricate disinformation operations that are intended at provoking strife. It can be carried out by individuals acting on their own initiative or by organised organisations with specific goals in mind. In addition to causing victims to experience immediate emotional distress, the influence of religious trolling extends far beyond the scope of the situation. According to Coles and West (2016), it also leads to a broadening of the atmosphere of intolerance and division that exists inside online groups.

It is of the utmost importance to have a complete awareness of the psychological effects that religious trolling has on the well-being of students. When we talk about psychological well-being, we are referring to the state of having emotional stability, having excellent mental health, and being able to deal with stress and the challenges that life throws at us without being overwhelmed. Due to the fact that kids are currently in a critical stage of growth, it is of the utmost importance to pay attention to their psychological well-being. According to Ryff (1989), this is a necessary component for obtaining academic success, effectively integrating into society, and experiencing personal development.

Because it can bring on feelings of worry, despair, and social isolation, indulging in religious trolling can have a significant impact on the psychological well-being of students. This is because it can cause students to suffer from these emotions. It has been established through research that those who are subjected to online harassment, such as religious trolling, have much higher levels of psychological suffering in contrast to their peers. The findings of a study that was carried out by Kowalski and colleagues (2014) demonstrated that persons who have been subjected to cyberbullying are more likely to display symptoms of depression and anxiety. The psychological symptoms that they are experiencing may have a negative impact on their academic results as well as their social connections.

Further, the psychological effects of engaging in religious trolling may have long-lasting consequences for the individual who engages in such behaviour. When someone is subjected to online harassment for an extended period of time, it can lead to a decrease in their self-esteem, an increase in their stress levels, and in extreme cases, the idea of ending their own life. According to Beyens, Frison, and Eggermont (2016), the influence on mental well-being can also have an effect on physical well-being, which can result in sleep disruptions, migraines, and other health conditions that are connected with stress.

Researchers may be able to develop targeted treatments for students who have been affected by religious trolling if they investigate the psychological effects of this type of behaviour and then develop these treatments. The implementation of educational programmes, the provision of psychological support services, and the establishment of rules to combat cyberbullying are all potential steps in this direction. Furthermore, having an understanding of these affects can help influence the development of social media platforms, allowing for the enhancement of their safety and the creation of environments that are more nurturing for all users.

The extensive use of social media among students, in conjunction with the negative effects of religious trolling, shows the necessity of doing in-depth research on the psychological influence of social media. Taking action to address this issue is absolutely necessary in order to safeguard the mental health of students and to foster an online community that is more welcoming and respectful of difference. This research not only contributes to the ongoing scholarly conversation, but it also has implications for educators, policymakers, and producers of social media platforms in terms of constructing online settings that are more vulnerable to criminal activity.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Religious trolling, a pernicious form of cyber harassment, has emerged as a significant issue on social media platforms. It involves targeting individuals or groups based on their religious beliefs with the intent to provoke, offend, or cause emotional distress. This behavior includes derogatory comments, hate speech, and the spread of misinformation aimed at undermining or attacking religious sentiments. The anonymity and wide reach of social media exacerbate the problem, allowing trolls to operate with relative impunity and amplifying the impact of their harmful actions (Phillips, 2015).

The issues arising from religious trolling are multifaceted. First, it creates a hostile online environment where individuals feel unsafe expressing their religious views. This can lead to self-censorship and a decline in open, meaningful discussions about religion. Second, religious trolling fosters intolerance and division within online communities, contributing to broader societal tensions. The spread of false information about religious practices and beliefs can perpetuate stereotypes and fuel prejudice, further polarizing communities (Jane, 2015).

Moreover, religious trolling can escalate into offline consequences, including real-world discrimination and violence. The normalization of religious intolerance online can embolden individuals to act on these prejudices in their daily lives, leading to incidents of hate crimes and social exclusion. The pervasive nature of this issue calls for a comprehensive understanding and targeted interventions to mitigate its impact (Coles & West, 2016). The impact of religious trolling on students' mental health and well-being is profound and far-reaching. Students, who are in a critical developmental stage, are particularly vulnerable to the psychological effects of online harassment. Religious trolling can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Victims of trolling often experience feelings of helplessness, isolation, and low self-esteem, which can severely affect their academic performance and social interactions (Kowalski et al., 2014).

Exposure to religious trolling can also lead to long-term psychological trauma. Persistent harassment can result in chronic stress, which is associated with various health problems, including insomnia, headaches, and weakened immune responses. In extreme cases, the emotional distress caused by religious trolling can contribute to suicidal ideation and attempts. The mental health consequences are compounded by the fact that many students may feel reluctant to seek help due to stigma or fear of further victimization (Beyens, Frison, & Eggermont, 2016).

The impact on students' well-being extends beyond individual health. It affects their academic engagement and success, as psychological distress can impair concentration, memory, and motivation. Furthermore, the social aspect of student life is disrupted, as victims may withdraw from social activities and relationships to avoid potential harassment. This isolation can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression, creating a vicious cycle of mental health issues (Junco, 2012).

The relevance of studying the psychological effects of religious trolling at Nasarawa State University Keffi is underscored by the university's diverse religious demographic. As a microcosm of Nigeria's broader religious landscape, the university community comprises students from various religious backgrounds, making it a pertinent site for examining the dynamics and impact of religious trolling.

Given the increasing reliance on social media for academic and social interactions, students at Nasarawa State University Keffi are not immune to the challenges posed by religious trolling. Understanding the specific experiences and effects within this context is crucial for developing effective interventions tailored to the needs of the university community. This study aims to provide insights into the prevalence of religious trolling, the coping mechanisms employed by students, and the broader implications for their mental health and academic success.

Additionally, this research has practical implications for university policy and support services. By highlighting the psychological impact of religious trolling, the study can inform the development of comprehensive support systems, including counseling services, awareness programs, and reporting mechanisms. These measures can help create a safer and more inclusive online environment for students, fostering a campus culture that values respect and diversity (Smith & Anderson, 2018).

The problem of religious trolling presents significant challenges for students' mental health and well-being. By focusing on Nasarawa State University Keffi, this study seeks to address these issues within a specific context, providing valuable insights and recommendations for mitigating the impact of religious trolling and promoting a healthier, more supportive online community.

 

1.3 Research Objectives

1. To identify the prevalence of religious trolling among students.

2. To assess the psychological effects of religious trolling.

3. To evaluate coping mechanisms used by students.

4. To recommend strategies for mitigating negative effects.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How prevalent is religious trolling on social media among students?

2. What psychological effects does religious trolling have on students?

3. What coping mechanisms do students employ?

4. What measures can be taken to reduce the impact of religious trolling?

1.5 Significance of the Study

The significance of studying the psychological effects of religious trolling on students’ well-being cannot be overstated. For students, understanding these effects is crucial for fostering a safe and supportive learning environment. Religious trolling can severely impact students’ mental health, academic performance, and social interactions. By identifying the prevalence and consequences of such harassment, the study aims to equip students with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves and seek help when needed. This empowerment can lead to improved mental health outcomes and overall well-being (Beyens, Frison, & Eggermont, 2016).

For educators, the findings of this study provide valuable insights into the challenges their students face online. Awareness of the psychological impact of religious trolling can help educators develop strategies to support affected students, such as incorporating mental health resources into the curriculum and fostering a more inclusive classroom environment. Additionally, educators can play a proactive role in teaching digital literacy and resilience, helping students navigate social media safely and responsibly (Junco, 2012).

Policymakers also stand to benefit from this study. Understanding the extent and impact of religious trolling on students can inform the creation of effective policies and regulations to combat online harassment. This includes developing comprehensive guidelines for social media platforms to address and mitigate religious trolling, as well as implementing support systems for victims. Policymakers can also use the study's findings to advocate for better mental health services within educational institutions, ensuring that students have access to the help they need (Smith & Anderson, 2018).

This study contributes to the existing literature on cyberbullying and mental health by focusing specifically on religious trolling and its psychological effects on students. While there is a growing body of research on cyberbullying, studies that examine the intersection of religion and online harassment are relatively scarce. By filling this gap, the study provides a nuanced understanding of how religious trolling differs from other forms of online harassment and the unique challenges it poses (Kowalski et al., 2014).

Furthermore, the study’s context-specific focus on Nasarawa State University Keffi adds a valuable dimension to the existing research. It highlights the experiences of students in a diverse religious setting, providing insights that can be applied to similar contexts globally. The study also offers practical recommendations for interventions, contributing to the development of more effective strategies to combat religious trolling and support affected individuals (Phillips, 2015).

1.6 Scope and Limitations

Focus on Nasarawa State University Keffi

The scope of this study is centered on Nasarawa State University Keffi, a diverse academic institution with students from various religious backgrounds. This focus allows for an in-depth exploration of the specific experiences and effects of religious trolling within this context. By concentrating on this university, the study aims to provide detailed and relevant findings that can inform targeted interventions and support systems.

Potential Limitations in Data Collection and Generalization

While the study aims to provide comprehensive insights, several limitations must be acknowledged. Firstly, data collection may be constrained by the willingness of students to participate and disclose their experiences with religious trolling. Social desirability bias could lead some respondents to underreport their encounters with online harassment, affecting the accuracy of the findings (Kowalski et al., 2014).

Secondly, the study’s focus on a single university limits the generalizability of its results. While the findings will be relevant to Nasarawa State University Keffi, they may not fully represent the experiences of students at other institutions, particularly those in different cultural or religious settings. Additionally, the cross-sectional nature of the study means it captures a snapshot in time, which may not account for changes in social media usage or trolling behaviors over time (Smith & Anderson, 2018).

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Religious Trolling

Religious trolling refers to the act of posting inflammatory, offensive, or provocative messages targeting individuals or groups based on their religious beliefs. This form of cyberbullying is characterized by its intent to provoke emotional distress and create discord within online communities (Phillips, 2015).

Psychological Effects

Psychological effects encompass the mental and emotional responses individuals experience as a result of specific stimuli or events. In the context of this study, it refers to the mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and stress resulting from religious trolling (Kowalski et al., 2014).

 

Well-being

Well-being is a multifaceted concept that includes emotional stability, mental health, and the capacity to manage life’s challenges effectively. It encompasses both positive states, such as happiness and contentment, and the absence of negative states, such as stress and depression (Ryff, 1989).

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is the use of digital technologies, including social media, to harass, threaten, or humiliate individuals. It can take various forms, such as spreading rumors, sending threatening messages, or sharing private information without consent (Smith et al., 2008).

Mental Health

Mental health refers to a state of well-being in which individuals realize their potential, can cope with normal stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their community. It is an integral part of overall health and well-being (World Health Organization, 2001).

Social Media

Social media refers to online platforms and applications that enable users to create, share, and interact with content and with each other. Examples include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp (Smith & Anderson, 2018).

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