Sasha White
The reality of online misogyny is concerning and pervasive, propagated via platforms which are normally designed to foster connection. How can this be tackled?
Misogyny isn’t new, but it’s certainly become worse with an increase in misogynistic and divisive language online. Broader societal challenges which gave rise to the ‘manosphere’, Incel culture and Andrew Tate, fuel this new wave of misogyny.
A study commissioned by Amnesty International UK found that 73 per cent of Gen Z who are on social media have encountered online misogyny. Among social media platforms, TikTok is seen as the worst offender, with 70 per cent of users reporting misogynistic content, and Instagram following at a close second.
Online misogyny, however, undoubtedly stems from real world attitudes, but the reality of 21st century existence feeds into the rise of these extremist behaviours and spaces online.
Where Does Online Misogyny Stem From?
Empoword interviewed Marcus Maloney, Assistant Professor of Sociology at Coventry University, who believes that online misogyny stems from several interconnected factors, including societal precarity, the breakdown of community and various psychological elements.
Maloney believes online misogyny is not caused by the internet itself, but is a symptom of broader societal challenges in how young men are socialised and supported. The internet merely provides a platform for these underlying tensions to manifest.
He said: “There’s a historical precedent to the kind of way that people overemphasise the internet as causing these issues. I think it’s very similar to what you saw in the 1990s with the way that, say, video games were blamed for young men doing violent acts.
“I mean, you can look at literature in the 80s, and the scary thing is, you’ll find experts who back these sorts of claims up. We always seem to focus on the media that’s being consumed by people, especially young people, as a very easy answer for how we can fix a whole range of problems with youth, if that makes sense.”
The Growth Of The ‘Manosphere’
The ‘manosphere’ is a growing online community characterised by male-centered reactionary groups and anti-feminist communities spreading traditionalist and extremist values.
These groups appeal to the anxieties and insecurities faced by young men about their future prospects – from uncertainty over their career to relationship opportunities. However, the solutions to their problems often introduce misogynistic attitudes.
“Often, content offers simplistic advice and explanations for complicated social challenges.”
The psychological appeal of the ‘manosphere’ is that it offers clear solutions to complex social challenges, including youth’s sense of uncertainty, and emotional and social gaps left by fragmented community structures. The ‘manosphere’ provides a sense of belonging and purpose despite these issues. In turn, this creates the perfect environment for the proliferation of misogyny.
Ultimately, the ‘manosphere’ is not an isolated issue but a symptom of broader societal issues. It reflects deeper challenges in how young men navigate contemporary social landscapes.
Incel Culture And Online Misogyny
Incel culture promotes misogynistic hate speech against women and can lead to unintentional radicalisation.
The Incel subculture stems from the ‘manosphere’, where misogynistic views are prevalent. A key belief is that feminism has ruined what Incels perceive to be an ideal society.
Entitlement, misogyny, jealousy, fatalism and victimhood have all been identified as driving forces of this subculture.
Rachael Leggett is a lecturer in Forensic Psychology at Coventry University who researches this topic. She suggests that the rise of Incel culture is caused by a complex interplay of personal experiences, mental health and social influences. The internet has enabled these individuals to engage with like-minded communities, which emboldens their beliefs and potentially radicalises them.
In an interview with Empoword, Leggett highlighted that Incel-related behaviours stem from a combination of personal struggles, social isolation and exposure to toxic online environments. These toxic platforms entice young men through validation and amplify negative perspectives towards women and relationships.
She believes platforms like Reddit and X are now more proactive at removing extreme content. And some platforms have already started removing or restricting Incel-related forums.
“A digital world free from misogyny isn’t an unrealistic ideal, but a necessary goal.”
Online subcultures serve as both a challenge and an opportunity for societal transformation. The goal is to continue challenging these attitudes through education, awareness and systemic changes.
Leggett said that support for victims of online misogyny and harassment – which could potentially translate into real-world violence – requires a comprehensive approach addressing both digital platforms and broader societal attitudes toward women and marginalised groups.
She added: “I hope, given that there’s a lot more education available now, that things are moving in a more positive direction.”
The Rise Of Misogynistic Influencers
Misogynistic influencers like Andrew Tate are also a symptom of the deeper societal issues among the youth, especially as young men seek meaning and guidance in a rapidly changing social landscape.
Tate appeals to young men’s contemporary anxieties by promising techniques for attracting women and success whilst simultaneously introducing more extreme misogynistic perspectives.
Social media algorithms amplify and therefore normalise this extreme content. Often, content offers simplistic advice and explanations for complicated social challenges. So, how can we fight this?
How Can Education Combat Online Misogyny?
It is essential to understand the root causes of why young men are drawn to misogynistic content in order to tackle the issue.
To block content or ban technology won’t solve anything. But, helping young people understand why these harmful ideologies emerge and giving them alternative ways to find their identity can help.
Maloney said: “Boys and young men are being drawn into these spaces because they feel mainstream society is not offering them a sense of certainty in their life prospects.”
He thinks that schools should focus on broader socialisation strategies that help students navigate complex social dynamics, rather than treating online misogyny as a purely technological problem.
A holistic approach is needed to face this. One which socialises young people with positive gender equality values and addresses underlying societal issues causing youth anxiety.
“The solutions are complex, but the message is simple: everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, online or off.”
Alongside this, meaningful support and guidance for young men and the adoption of critical thinking skills around online content is also necessary.
A digital world free from misogyny isn’t an unrealistic ideal, but a necessary goal. It starts with how young people – especially boys – are supported.
This must continue alongside monitoring the platforms they inhabit accordingly. The solutions are complex, but the message is simple: everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, online or off.
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Featured image courtesy of cottonbro studio via Pexels. No changes were made to this image. Image license found here.
Sasha White
NCTJ-qualified journalist with experience in producing compelling original stories, securing high-quality interviews, and creating content across platforms. First-Class Spanish and English Literature grad from Edinburgh University.