While concerns about screen time and social media influence are nothing new, one of the most dangerous - and possibly least understood - threats is quietly embedding itself in the digital spaces young people occupy every day: the manosphere.
The manosphere is a network of online communities that promote misogynistic and anti-feminist ideologies. It spans forums, social media accounts, and content creators, often presenting itself as harmless self-help or dating advice.
This article explores how these spaces are gradually introducing young people to harmful beliefs about gender, relationships, and consent, subsequently influencing how they think and behave both online and offline.
Understanding how the manosphere works and the affects it has on young people is the first step in ensuring teachers and parents feel equipped to protect them.
These communities have a gradual draw – starting with content that appears positive or motivational before introducing damaging messaging. This can make the influence of the manosphere difficult to spot at first.
Social media algorithms amplify the problem by acting as echo chambers. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Discord make this content highly accessible and can repeatedly surface similar content a user engages with, reinforcing these harmful ideas.
Young men, in particular, may be more susceptible if they are experiencing feelings of isolation, rejection, or low self-esteem, as the manosphere often presents as offering a solution or sense of belonging. Having an awareness of these dynamics is crucial in recognising early signs of influence or risk to exposure.
The rise of high-profile misogynistic influencers like Andrew Tate has brought the ‘manosphere’ into public discussion – and into classrooms across the UK.
In schools, its influence can be seen in behavioural and linguistic changes. Students may show increased aggression, disrespect towards peers - especially young women - or resistance to discussions on gender equality. Language is also affected, with terms like ‘alpha male’ and ‘beta’ becoming increasingly common in everyday conversation.
Beyond behaviour, the manosphere can impact emotional wellbeing. Hyper-masculine ideals promote unrealistic standards that can leave young men feeling inadequate. The stigmatisation of vulnerability discourages them from expressing emotions or seeking support, potentially increasing feelings of anxiety and encouraging social withdrawal.
Identifying the influence of the manosphere early is crucial. Schools and parents should be alert to:
A proactive, multi-layered approach can help protect students from harmful online communities.
Digital literacy education helps students critically assess online content, allowing them to become more adept at recognising manipulative or extremist narratives. Implementing monitoring and filtering systems can further reduce exposure to this type of content, and supports teachers with identifying broader trends, allowing for targeted, timely interventions.
At the same time, encouraging open conversations – both in the classroom and at home – creates an environment of trust, making it more likely that young people will approach a trusted adult if they encounter concerning content online. This open communication is key to early intervention, as young people who feel safe discussing their online experiences will be less likely to be drawn further into these harmful communities.
The rise of the manosphere highlights the evolving nature of online threats to young people. By combining digital literacy, preventative technology, and open communication, schools and parents can help young people navigate online spaces safely. Early identification and intervention are key to fostering positive, resilient, and respectful communities, both online and offline.