Online Misogyny, the Manosphere, and Mental Health

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Online Misogyny, the Manosphere, and Mental Health

The TV series, Adolescence, has recently re-ignited a global debate around online misogyny and violence against women and girls.

The drama follows the family of a 13-year-old schoolboy who is arrested for killing a female classmate and explores the impact of social media and misogynist influencers. One key takeaway from the series was a moment in the last episode where the parents looked at each other and asked:

“Should we have done more?”

It’s a reminder that all of us have a role to play in tackling this issue, whether we’re a parent/carer or a professional supporting a child or young person. This blog therefore looks to raise awareness of the issue of online misogyny and what resources, supports, and learning programmes are out there to help us challenge it and prevent it.

What is Misogyny?

Misogyny is online hate targeting women and girls.

Some individuals, online communities, and influencers, such as Andrew Tate, share a misogynistic narrative that women should be seen and treated as less than men.

Many boys and young men will also see misogyny in mainstream online pornography, often before they have experienced intimate sexual relationships or been educated on them (1).

Statistics

≈70% of boys aged 11-14 have been exposed to content promoting misogyny (2)
1 in 5 men aged 16-29 who have heard of Andrew Tate think favourably of him (3)
16% of Gen Z males think feminism has done more harm than good (4)

Supporting Resources

What is Misogyny? A guide from Internet Matters exploring online misogyny and actions to challenge it.
Misogyny in Schools – A guide for teachers to challenge misogyny effectively.
Preventing and Responding to GBV – A whole school framework for responding to gender-based violence (GBV) in schools.
Digital Wellbeing Conversation Starters – A toolkit to support regular conversations about digital wellbeing.
Online Harms – Helplines and supports for a variety of relevant harms, such as sexual exploitation/abuse.

(Digital Wellbeing Wheel, Conversation Starters Toolkit)

Learning Programmes

Equally Safe at School – An online intervention supporting a whole school approach to addressing GBV. Available for higher education.
Mentors in Violence Prevention – Peer education programme for young poeple to explore and challenge causes of GBV.
RSHP – National resource for relationships, sexual health and parenthood for children and young people. Includes catalogue of resources focusing on gender equality, discrimination, GBV.
Equally Safe in Practice – Strengthen knowledge and practice of Scottish workforce in responding to VAWG.
Under Pressure – Zero Tolerance training to give attendees confidence to talk to young people about sensitive subjects, including incels and intimate images.