Teen boys share thoughts on women and influencers

Boys face a barrage of toxic influences. We talk to sixth-formers about the pressures and joys they experience.

Teen boys share their thoughts on girls and online influences

The new Netflix drama Adolescence has raised concerns about the lives of teenage boys. Politicians and parents are now engaging in discussions about the pressures young men face online. Michael Conroy, a professional who trains educators on boys' development, notes that boys are now more exposed to sexualized content than ever before, highlighting a trend of younger boys using pornography. His observations reveal that many boys as young as 11 have begun to view relationships and women through a distorted lens. To better understand the boys' perspective, journalist Helen Pidd interviewed five students at a sixth-form college in Manchester. They openly shared their thoughts on topics like unsolicited images and the relevance of online influencers, often dismissing much of what they see as nonsense.

The dialogue surrounding young boys is shifting, especially in the context of toxic online influences. While shows like Adolescence spark necessary conversations, they also risk oversimplifying complex realities. By engaging directly with boys, we gain insight into how they perceive their interactions with girls and the pressure from internet culture. This perspective is crucial for educators and parents who want to address the deeper issues stemming from unrealistic portrayals of masculinity and relationships.

Highlights

Understanding these young voices is vital to support healthy development.