Mar 24 2025.
views 2751The rise of figures like Andrew Tate and the toxic online culture of the "manosphere" have left many parents wondering: How do I protect my son from these dangerous ideologies? The truth is, young boys are increasingly being targeted by influencers who package misogyny, entitlement, and aggression as empowerment. These messages spread through social media, gaming communities, and YouTube, making them difficult to monitor.
But there is hope. Here’s what parents can do to help their sons navigate this digital landscape without falling into the manosphere’s grip.
Young boys often turn to the manosphere because it provides simple (but misleading) answers to complex problems. If they feel lonely, insecure, or frustrated, figures like Tate promise them power, success, and control. Recognizing why your son might be drawn to these figures is the first step in addressing the issue.
If you’re not having open conversations about masculinity, respect, and relationships, someone else - possibly a YouTube algorithm - is doing it for you. Start these discussions early, making sure your son knows that feeling uncertain or struggling with self-worth is normal. Offer healthier role models and reinforce positive values.
Encourage critical thinking about the content they consume. Ask them: Who is this person? What do they gain by telling you this? Do they actually live the life they claim to? Help them understand that just because someone is confident and charismatic doesn’t mean they’re telling the truth.
Banning your child from watching certain content outright may only make it more appealing. Instead, show interest in what they’re consuming. If they mention Tate or similar influencers, ask questions: What do you think about what he said? Do you think that applies to real life? Encourage discussions rather than shutting them down.
Boys need strong, positive examples of masculinity. Encourage relationships with male mentors - coaches, teachers, or family members - who embody respect, empathy, and responsibility. Introduce them to creators, athletes, or entrepreneurs who promote hard work and success without belittling others.
Boys who feel secure in real life are less likely to seek validation from toxic online communities. Encourage activities that build self-esteem - sports, arts, social groups, or volunteering. Help them find a sense of purpose that isn’t tied to the number of likes on a post.
Children absorb more from what they see than what they’re told. Show respect in your own relationships, challenge sexist remarks when they arise, and model the kind of masculinity you’d want your son to adopt.
The manosphere thrives on isolation, anger, and fear. The best defense is connection. Be the person your son trusts enough to talk to when he’s confused or frustrated. That conversation might just be what steers him away from a path of resentment and toward a healthier, happier future.
7 Comments
Ahmed says:
Apr 21, 2025 at 01:24 pmWhat about protecting girls from feminism? Talking and defending men's rights is not misogyny.
Dam says:
May 07, 2025 at 09:19 amThe above is a really good example for anyone not familiar with the subject being discussed.
Dee says:
May 19, 2025 at 01:08 pmAh, the classic “what about the girls” deflection. Sweetie, feminism is what gave girls (and women) the right to vote, work, and exist beyond the kitchen. It’s not a threat unless you think equality is. And just so we’re clear, defending men’s rights isn’t misogyny, but doing it while trying to dismiss women’s concerns or prop up toxic influencers like Tate? That’s not rights advocacy. That’s just rebranded patriarchy in a podcast mic. Let’s aim higher, shall we? Both boys and girls deserve better.
Aaron says:
May 08, 2025 at 11:26 ami dont understand this articile, whats the purpose of it. How about the danger of Feminism? which is the root cause of misogyny. look at the broad picture first, without looking at the face value of certain online figures.
Dee says:
May 19, 2025 at 01:11 pmAh yes, feminism, the go-to villain when the critical thinking isn’t strong. The article’s not about bashing men. It’s about protecting boys from influencers who sell insecurity as empowerment. You don’t have to stan Andrew Tate to see how toxic some of that messaging can be. Also, blaming feminism for misogyny is like blaming fire alarms for fires. Let’s not confuse the cure with the cause. And you do realise that an article can focus on one topic at a time without trying to talk about everything all at once? BFFR.
Senarath Dasanayaka says:
May 16, 2025 at 11:34 amInteresting Keep your children close to the family.
Damian says:
May 20, 2025 at 08:40 amYes ! You are right . Be with your family. It’s beautiful. Don’t isolate your children.