Research Seminar: Dr Jackie Gray (Middlesex University)

*** Everyone Welcome! No need to book in advance ***

Date: Thursday 17th November
Time: 14:00-15:00
Room: Town Hall Committee Room 2

Dr Jackie Gray (Middlesex University)

Internet Trolling: Does the Context Matter?

Abstract: Internet trolling is a relatively modern phenomenon, and the term is used to encompass a variety of behaviours that on consideration appear to differ in some key characteristics. This presentation will discuss the findings from some preliminary research examining the perception of different types of trolling, and also consider some factors that may influence these perceptions. The first study discussed addresses the development of a scale that assesses beliefs about the motivations for trolling of different types, and appropriate responses to these behaviours. The second and third studies reported then focus on factors that may influence the perception of troll behaviour: in terms of priming values related to the importance of the freedom of speech and also in relation to the nature of the target of the trolling. The discussion will also encompass research currently being developed that will seek to use proximity analysis to examine online interactions, to provide further evidence regarding whether the context in which trolling occurs does indeed matter.

Dr Jackie Gray is an Associate Professor in Forensic Psychology at Middlesex University, and is the Programme Leader for the MSc Forensic Psychology. She has extensive experience of publishing research using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Her main research interests focus on internet trolling and also the treatment of crime victims by the Criminal Justice System, with a particular focus on sexual violence. An overarching theme to all of her research is related to the operation of justice, and examining how both public and authorities respond to criminal and antisocial behaviour.