In recent years, the phenomenon of incel culture has come under increasing scrutiny, particularly in light of its intersections with toxic masculinity and violence among young men. This social phenomenon, which encapsulates the lives of involuntary celibates—men who claim to be unable to find romantic or sexual partners—has drawn widespread attention and concern from various sectors, including the media, education, and mental health fields.
One significant exploration of this issue is encapsulated in Netflix's recent series, Adolescence, which delves into the tragic events surrounding a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, accused of murdering a classmate. The series, co-created by actor Stephen Graham, highlights the troubling links between young men’s experiences online and the potential for violence, providing critical insights into how incel ideology can take root in vulnerable individuals.
In the Richard Dimbleby Lecture delivered on March 18, 2025, former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate voiced his concern over the rising influence of “callous, manipulative and toxic influencers” in place of traditional role models. Southgate emphasized a societal crisis, noting how unhealthy online spaces are becoming substitute mentors for young men who are increasingly isolated and searching for guidance.
“These are callous, manipulative and toxic influencers, whose sole drive is for their own gain,” he stated, citing concerns that these figures propagate a worldview where success is equated with dominance and emotional suppression, often placing blame on women for perceived failures in romantic relationships. Such messages resonate within the incendiary narratives found in the so-called ‘manosphere,’ a collection of online forums that amplify misogynistic views and reinforce harmful stereotypes about masculinity.
Alana founded the first incel website, Alana’s Involuntary Celibacy Project, back in 1997 to support individuals struggling with loneliness. However, as these forums evolved, they became breeding grounds for resentment, anger, and misogyny. Presently, the incel community has gained notoriety through tragic events linked to their ideology, including mass shootings and violent attacks motivated by homicidal rage aimed at women.
The impact of incel culture is both extensive and alarming. Statistics show that 75% of incels experience mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, while 20% report daily suicidal thoughts. These alarming figures highlight the psychological struggles faced by many young men who become entrenched in the incel lifestyle. Sometimes falling prey to harmful ideologies, like believing they are victims of societal norms favoring women over men and consistently seeking affirmation through toxic discussions in online communities.
In the context of violence, the danger posed by incel ideologies is underscored by several high-profile attacks, including the 2014 Isla Vista shootings perpetrated by Elliot Rodger and the tragic 2018 Toronto van attack. These incidents not only resulted in unspeakable loss but also fueled discussions about whether incels should be considered a domestic terror group, given their underlying male supremacy. Southgate’s remarks line up with this growing consensus that society must take action to curtail the influences that radicalize young men.
For many young men, the sense of isolation fosters a dangerous cycle, where failure feeds into anger, leading to more extreme expressions of resentment. Such toxic cycles can lead to ever-increasing acts of violence being perpetrated against others, with the incel community often glorifying not just their status but the act of being a virgin for an extended duration as some form of warped honor.
In a chilling reflection of the issue, one ex-incel member illustrated, “Instead of being met with ‘oh no, please don’t do it,’ some would say ‘same’” when discussions turned to self-harm or suicide. This dark universe often feels like a safe space for expression, albeit one that reinforces unhealthy coping mechanisms and fortifies the perceived legitimacy of their frustrations.
In the wake of Adolescence, which portrays the stark realities these young men face, there’s an urgent need for more awareness and conversation about the implications of incel culture and how its narratives play out in society. As Southgate highlighted, young men left without role models are more likely to fill their searches for wisdom with harmful influences, leaving them vulnerable to self-destructive ideologies.
Social media plays a key role in amplifying harmful messages. Research indicates a four-fold increase in misogynistic content surfacing in TikTok feeds, with many users exposed to toxic narratives in their daily browsing without adequate cautionary guidance or parental oversight.
Amid such complexities, the relevance of mental health must be acknowledged. There is a clear intersection between vulnerability, isolation, and susceptibility to radical ideologies. As emphasized by experts and reflected in the broader culture, it is imperative that society address the psychological landscape for young men with compassion while guarding against the potential dangers of misogyny and violence.
The poison of misogynistic ideology must be challenged at every level, from education to media representation. As the world grapples with the ramifications of a growing crisis in the mental health of young men, it's vital to reshape narratives and counteract influences that lead youth toward paths of anger, violence, and resentment.
In the end, addressing the complex narratives surrounding masculinity and vulnerability is not the sole responsibility of the individuals ensnared by these cycles, but rather a collective societal duty to forge a healthier path forward.
As the programs like Adolescence aim to highlight, it is through understanding and dialogue that significant change can occur, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment for future generations.
