In the past decade, a new wave of online communities known as the “manosphere” has gained significant traction worldwide. These loosely connected groups claim to address men’s issues and challenges but often promote extreme narratives that frame men as victims of modern gender equality efforts. This emerging digital phenomenon is raising serious concerns among social scientists, mental health experts, and policymakers.
The manosphere serves as an umbrella term for various online subcultures, including men’s rights activists (MRAs), involuntary celibates (incels), pick-up artists (PUAs), and groups known as “Men Going Their Own Way” (MGTOW). While these communities differ in their approaches, they share a common foundation: a deep-seated resentment toward women and a belief that societal structures unfairly disadvantage men.
MRAs, for example, argue that women’s advancements in education, leadership, and legal rights have left men behind, creating a so-called “gynocentric” society. They claim that men face systemic discrimination and that feminism has overstepped its bounds, turning men into second-class citizens. This narrative, however, overlooks the ongoing disparities women continue to face in many parts of the world and distorts the aims of gender equality movements.
The manosphere appeals strongly to young men, particularly those experiencing feelings of alienation, loneliness, or disillusionment. Many young men searching online for advice on fitness, dating, or career success often find themselves drawn into these communities. Once inside, they are exposed to rhetoric that can quickly escalate from self-help advice to extreme misogyny and anti-social beliefs.
Recent surveys indicate that a significant number of young men engage regularly with online influencers who promote narrow and aggressive definitions of masculinity. While these influencers often market themselves as life coaches or self-improvement gurus, they frequently frame women as manipulative or untrustworthy and encourage adversarial approaches to relationships.
The consequences of such messaging are far-reaching. Research shows that online spaces influenced by manosphere ideologies can normalize harmful behaviors, including verbal abuse, harassment, and even violence against women. In some cases, these communities have been linked to real-world acts of violence and radicalization, underscoring the potential dangers of unchecked digital echo chambers.
Additionally, the manosphere’s use of coded language and inside jokes—terms like “red pill,” “AWALT” (all women are like that), and “femoids” (a derogatory term for women)—reinforces group identity and isolates members from alternative viewpoints. This environment can entrench harmful beliefs and make it difficult for individuals to disengage.
Despite the damaging narratives, it is important to recognize that many men do face legitimate challenges. Issues such as mental health stigma, high suicide rates among men, workplace hazards, and pressures to conform to traditional notions of masculinity are serious and deserve attention. However, addressing these concerns through blame and resentment rather than constructive dialogue only deepens societal divisions.
Experts suggest that a more balanced approach is needed—one that acknowledges men’s issues without scapegoating women or feminism. Positive male role models, mental health support networks, and inclusive community spaces can offer healthier alternatives. Empowering men to express vulnerability, seek help, and engage in conversations about equality can build stronger, more supportive environments for all.
Ultimately, the manosphere highlights the urgent need for better digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and accessible support systems for young people. As online spaces continue to shape attitudes and identities, fostering inclusive, respectful, and evidence-based discussions is essential for countering harmful ideologies.
Society benefits when men and women work together to build equitable, safe, and thriving communities. Moving away from narratives of victimhood and conflict toward mutual understanding and shared progress is key to creating a more compassionate and just future.
Writer By Qamar Naseem
The write is Human Rights Activist and works as a Program Manager Blue Veins
