Recent discussions surrounding masculinity have gained traction, with many young men openly seeking alternatives to the toxic narratives often found online. In an article published on November 2, 2023, by Josh Sargent, he explores how social media platforms contribute to the proliferation of the so-called manosphere, a space often associated with misogyny and harmful stereotypes about masculinity.
Sargent’s insights resonate with Siobhan Lyons, a media and cultural studies scholar based in Sydney, Australia. She emphasizes the importance of fostering open conversations with young men. According to Lyons, social media diverts attention from more meaningful pursuits, such as reading, and instead promotes shallow engagement. She cites Sargent’s observation that “short-form content is slightly more engaging than Macbeth quotation flashcards,” highlighting the concerning trend of prioritizing trivial over substantive discourse.
Lyons notes that the education system must evolve to better connect with young people. Historically, students have felt alienated, often perceiving their experiences as misunderstood by educators. This disconnect, she argues, contributes to the allure of the manosphere, where young men may find validation for their frustrations. “The manosphere tells young men they will not be seen, heard, or valued,” she states, urging that public conversations should focus on issues like money, identity, and societal expectations surrounding manhood.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Michael J. Richardson, a senior lecturer in human geography at Newcastle University, reflects on his decade of working with young men in the north-east of England. He argues that the media’s portrayal of young men often oversimplifies their struggles as mere misogyny or toxicity. Instead, he asserts that these young men are waiting for society to genuinely listen to their concerns. “We’re not lost. We’re just waiting for you to hear us,” Sargent writes, a sentiment Richardson wholeheartedly supports.
The complexities of masculinity were also examined through the lens of Vicky Dunn, a mother who engaged her son and his friends in a discussion about their perceptions of masculinity. After gathering insights from seven young men aged 17 to 19, she found that they recognized the link between “toxic” and “masculinity” in online spaces. They expressed understanding that not all expressions of masculinity are negative, noting the importance of diversity in gender identity and expression.
These young men highlighted the need for more relatable male role models, with most identifying action film actors as the only examples. They also discussed their local community, acknowledging the positive impact of youth activities in Grimsby, Lincolnshire. However, they criticized the rigidity of the education system, suggesting that it fails to accommodate diverse learning needs and has not adapted to modern educational requirements.
In their conversations, the young men agreed that labels can be limiting and insisted that open discussions about masculinity should be normalized. Dunn concluded that fostering honest dialogue with young men is essential for addressing the challenges they face in today’s society.
As this discourse evolves, it becomes increasingly clear that young men do not need to be rescued from the pressures of societal expectations; rather, they require a platform where their voices can be valued and heard. Engaging in meaningful conversations about masculinity can pave the way for healthier expressions of identity, ultimately moving society towards a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be a man today.
