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Adolescence: what teen boys really think of girls, influencers and porn
Mar 31, 2025
Join Michael Conroy, founder of Men at Work, as he navigates the world of teenage boys grappling with societal pressures. He shares insights from sixth-formers on toxic masculinity and the overwhelming influence of figures like Andrew Tate. The discussion touches on the emotional toll of teenage identity struggles and the evolving dynamics between boys and girls. Moreover, they highlight the impact of pornography and digital dangers on young relationships, advocating for open conversations to foster understanding and support among youth.
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Quick takeaways
- Adolescents are grappling with the pressures of toxic masculinity, leading to emotional repression and difficulty expressing vulnerability.
- The influence of social media figures like Andrew Tate complicates boys' understanding of masculinity, fostering harmful behaviors and unrealistic expectations.
Deep dives
The Impact of Masculinity Stereotypes
Adolescents today express a struggle with negative stereotypes associated with masculinity, feeling burdened by perceptions of toxic masculinity. Many boys mentioned feeling guilt linked to the broader behaviors of their gender, particularly in the wake of increased discussions around sexual violence and consent. This influences their understanding of masculinity, which they often associate with being emotionless, strong, or bold, resulting in a hesitance to express vulnerability or seek help. This internal conflict highlights the complexity of modern masculinity and the times in which these boys are growing up.
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