Neuropsychologist explained the reasons for anonymous aggression on the Internet

Anonymity on the Internet does not change a person's dopamine system, but it reduces the feeling of risk and can help perpetuate aggressive behavior. On July 21, Alyona Istomina, a neuropsychologist, founder and head of the network of neuropsychology and speech therapy centers, told Izvestia.

The brain constantly evaluates the possible reward and consequences of an action. If a person considers the probability of punishment to be minimal, the reward system reacts more strongly to the expected result, and the value of risks decreases.

"Dopamine in this case is responsible not so much for pleasure as for waiting for a significant event and reinforcing behavior. If an aggressive comment has caused a large number of responses or discussions, the brain perceives this as a successful experience and increases the likelihood of repeating such behavior," Istomina explained.

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This is not how dependence on aggression is formed, but a stable behavioral habit. Anonymous communication lacks most of the non-verbal signals, including facial expression, gaze, and intonation. Therefore, the brain receives less information, which helps to understand the emotions of the interlocutor and restrain aggressive reactions.

As the specialist noted, with severe irritation, the effectiveness of self-control may temporarily decrease. As a result, a person publishes a toxic comment for the sake of a quick emotional release, although he understands the risk of conflict or de-anonymization. However, dependence on anonymity or trolling is not a recognized medical diagnosis.

This behavior pattern can be changed due to the neuroplasticity of the brain. Istomina recommended limiting participation in aggressive discussions, reducing the impact of digital triggers, and developing emotional awareness. Cognitive behavioral therapy is considered one of the most studied methods of correction.

On July 6, Irina Krashkina, a psychotherapist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg clinic), Candidate of Medical Sciences, reported that the constant return to painful memories can negatively affect not only the emotional state, but also physical health. According to the expert, memories play an important role in a person's life, but sometimes past events begin to occupy too much space in thoughts.