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Manosphere public health debate

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2026-10-30 15:29 UTC → 2026-10-31 08:26 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Researchers and academics publishing in the journal Lancet have proposed that the manosphere, described as a diffuse commercial ecosystem of online communities promoting misogyny and toxic masculinity, should be treated as a public health issue. The report suggests this approach should be comparable to the regulation of tobacco or ultra-processed foods. Authors argue that these communities monetize the insecurities of young men by framing personal or structural struggles as the result of feminism. This process is described as a lucrative business model that commodifies masculine identity through products and paid content. Co-authors, including Professor Sarah Hawkes of University College London and Professor Kent ~~Buse,~~ Buse of Monash University Malaysia, note that while the desire for belonging is real, the manosphere exploits these needs for profit. The movement is linked to various harms, including mental health issues, violence against women and girls, and the delegitimization of men seeking help. Experts argue that by framing men’s struggles as the result of feminism rather than structural economic conditions, these communities may discourage young men from seeking legitimate support or education. To address these issues, experts recommend a coordinated response involving governments, schools, healthcare services, and community organizations. Proposed policy interventions aim to address root causes such as social isolation, educational disengagement, and financial insecurity, while simultaneously improving access to mental health services and employment opportunities. Experts suggest that content moderation alone is insufficient to mitigate these impacts.

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