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. 2017 Dec 28;20(9):3323–3340. doi: 10.1177/1461444817748578

Table 1.

Trolling types and sub-divisions.

Trolling type Explanation
Verbal Trolling Using a chat function in-game to troll another player.
Trash-talking Putting down or making fun of other players
Flaming Presenting emotionally fuelled or contrary statements with an instrumental purpose.
Misdirection Spread false information among targeted or general players
Spamming Repeating game-unrelated chat either textually or audibly in-game.
Inappropriate Roleplaying Pretending you are a different person (non-game-related) to obtain some kind of specific reaction.
Behavioural Trolling Using existing game mechanics to troll another player.
Inhibiting team Actively hampering your teammates’ in their goals.
Contrary play Playing the game outside of what is intended by most players.
Aiding the enemy Disregarding strategic play to make it easier for the opposing team to win.