#853 - Dr Andrew Thomas - Should We Be Worried About Incel Violence?
Oct 19, 2024
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Dr. Andrew Thomas is a senior lecturer in psychology at Swansea University, specializing in incel communities and male psychology. He delves into why incels form tight-knit communities and addresses the mental health implications surrounding them. Dr. Thomas explores the concept of 'Himpathy' and discusses why incel violence isn’t as common as feared. He highlights the diversity within these groups, misconceptions of entitlement, and the challenges men face in therapy when seeking help from female counselors. His insights urge a compassionate understanding of male vulnerability.
Incel communities are often misunderstood, requiring a mental health perspective to effectively address underlying issues rather than focusing solely on violence.
The feedback loop between poor mental health and extreme ideologies among incels highlights the need for interventions emphasizing psychological support to mitigate harmful beliefs.
Cultural narratives around masculinity contribute to emotional disconnection in incels, necessitating a nuanced understanding of their experiences beyond stereotypes and media portrayals.
Deep dives
Understanding the Incel Phenomenon
The podcast delves into the complexities of involuntary celibates (incels), a group commonly misunderstood by the public. Research indicates that incels are not simply misogynists; instead, they often consist of individuals who experience significant mental health challenges. The conversation reveals that incels should be examined through the lens of mental health rather than solely through a violent or aggressive ideology. This understanding may lead to effective interventions that address the root causes of their beliefs and behaviors.
Mental Health as a Predictor of Harm
In recent research, it was found that both mental health and ideological beliefs among incels are significant predictors of harmful behaviors. Individuals within the incel community who suffer from poor mental health tend to adopt more extreme ideologies, creating a feedback loop that exacerbates their conditions. This suggests that addressing mental health issues could feasibly lead to a reduction in harmful ideologies, making mental health support an essential component of any intervention. The findings call for a new approach that emphasizes psychological support as a means to alleviate both personal suffering and reduce societal harm.
Barriers to Sympathy for Incels
The discussion highlights the societal barriers that prevent sympathy for incels, often rooted in prevalent stereotypes and negative media portrayals. Many people view incels through the narrow lens of misogyny, failing to recognize the underlying issues of loneliness and mental distress they face. This lack of empathy is mirrored in both men and women, leading to a societal tendency to dismiss incels as deserving of their plight. Understanding these factors is crucial for fostering a more compassionate view of individuals struggling within these communities.
Nuances of Incel Ideologies
Contrary to popular belief, not all incels hold violent or extremist views; the community comprises diverse ideological beliefs and backgrounds. Research reveals that while certain subgroups may condone violence, a significant portion of incels seek support and understanding. Moreover, demographics show that incels are not strictly young white males, but rather represent a variety of ethnicities and political beliefs. This complexity challenges the monolithic portrayal of incels and underscores the necessity for tailored approaches to address their unique perspectives.
The Role of Female Therapists in Male Mental Health
Many male clients report challenges in therapy when paired with female therapists, often feeling misunderstood or invalidated. Cases where male clients experience bias or lack of empathy in therapy highlight the need for gender-sensitive approaches in mental health care. Clients have sometimes stated feeling sidelined during therapy sessions, especially those having relationship struggles, which can deter them from seeking further help. This raises important discussions on how therapists can better cater to male clients, creating a safe environment for effective communication.
Cultural Influences on Incel Behavior and Beliefs
The podcast underscores the influence of cultural narratives on incel behavior, especially in terms of dating and relationships. Cultural scripts around masculinity can often compel men to disconnect from emotional vulnerability, driving them towards anonymity in online spaces. This behavior is compounded by media portrayals that do not accurately reflect the lived experiences of men within these communities. Consequently, exploring and addressing these cultural narratives is essential for effectively understanding and helping individuals who identify as incels.
Dr Andrew Thomas is a senior lecturer of psychology at Swansea University and a writer.
The topic of involuntarily celibates is a spicy one. Half of the internet fears them and the other half pities them, very few have researched about why these communities come together and who constitutes them. Andrew's new work looks at this in fascinating detail.
Expect to learn whether incels should be looked at from a mental health perspective, why there isn't more incel violence, what the word Himpathy means, whether incels are all sexually entitled, what Andrew has learned about men’s experiences with female therapists and much more...
