Study finds young men attracted to online self-help but repelled by its misogyny
Young men value practical advice in masculinity content but notice misogyny and health risks.
Researchers in Australia, the UK and US asked young men about masculinity and fitness content on social media. Young men's verdict: useful advice alongside toxic messages.
Many were drawn to finance, fitness and dating tips. Finance, fitness and dating tips promised confidence and success.
Yet they also disliked the misogyny, unrealistic standards and harmful behaviors in the same content. One participant said: "pretty toxic but at the same time I can't help but want the confidence".
Several noted how manfluencers exploit insecurities and fears. They sometimes steer viewers toward extreme ideas.
Most handled this by picking what to follow and what to reject. However, none saw their own risk of being drawn into extreme ideas.
Many accepted misogyny if they could get self-improvement advice they wanted. The research showed misogyny is the strongest sign of violent extremism linked to this content.
- 142 aged 16 to 25
- Young men surveyed
- Australia, UK, US
- Countries included
- Finance, fitness, dating
- Content topics
- Misogyny
- Strongest extremism sign
Why it mattersUnderstanding how young men engage with this content helps shape responses. We can hold platforms accountable and offer mental health support. This way boys and men aren't left out of solutions.
AustraliaAustralia's proposed digital duty of care law would let young men opt out of algorithms monetising hate and harming women and girls, though whether they will use that power remains uncertain.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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