CAVEAT – Following our post, “Should You and Your Child Watch The Netflix Series Adolescence? – Our Review,” (1) we have received numerous inquiries from parents, caregivers, and educators asking for guidance on how to initiate meaningful discussions with teens about the concerns surrounding the Manosphere, their acolytes, and online radicalization. Our advice is to first gain a solid understanding of these challenges so you can engage in informed conversations with your kids. We have created a FREE resource page with this information to help guide the discussions that we speak to in this article.(2) In this article, we will share principles we have turned to and learned from others over the years when engaging in discussions with teen boys, approaches that have proven effective for us. Research supports that proactive education about the manosphere is both essential and the most effective way to counteract the impact of its toxic messaging. (3)  When discussing the “manosphere” (4) and misogynistic influencers like Andrew Tate (5) with teens, especially boys, it’s crucial to approach the conversation with facts and a critical thinking framework rather than judgment or condemnation. Simply labeling the manosphere or Tate as “bad” can immediately create resistance, as we have found that many young males idolize him. Instead of attacking the manosphere and there acolytes directly, fostering open discussions that encourage teens to analyze messaging critically is far more effective in our experience. Providing factual information that challenges common false narratives empowers teens to think for themselves, question misleading claims, and engage in meaningful, independent thought. Often, meaningful critical thinking triggers debate which can often allow youth and teen participants to see extremist content for what it is. Remember, it is important for parents, caregivers, and educators to demonstrate intellectual openness and a readiness to critically examine our own perspectives. This serves two key purposes: #1, it offers students a real-life example of critical thinking in action. #2, it challenges the common extremist narrative that parents, caregivers, and schools aim to indoctrinate and manipulate youth and teens into adopting biased intellectual agendas against the manosphere. #1 – A Thought Experiment: Sibling Equality One effective way to stimulate critical thinking about the messaging surrounding the manosphere is by presenting relatable scenarios. Ask teens to imagine they have a sibling, a sister who is two years older. Then, pose the following questions: These questions encourage young people to reflect on fundamental values such as equality, ambition, accountability, and mental health. They also start to expose contradictions in the manosphere messaging, without really talking about it, yet, that often downplays women’s capabilities and dismisses mental health issues. Once you have created a good discussion around the above noted questions, then provide them with these quotes form the Manosphere and Tate such as: This should spark further discussion about how this messaging is contrary to the earlier discussions they had about the same beliefs. #2 – Encouraging Self-Reflection: Who Are Your Role Models? Another approach to fostering critical thinking surrounding this issue is to ask teens: 1/ “Who are some adults you look up to as role models?” (Common answers often include sports figures, entrepreneurs, and historical leaders.) 2/ Then ask, “Do you think Andrew Tate is a good role model? Why or why not?” 3/ Then ask, “Do you think the role models you initially mentioned would hang out with Andrew Tate? Why or why not?” By comparing Tate to respected figures in sports, business, or activism, teens are prompted to evaluate whether his behaviour aligns with the qualities they admire. This exercise helps them see that many of their real-life heroes do not embody the same values Tate promotes. #3- “What if”questions to stimulate critical thinking Media Literacy & Content Analysis One of the first steps in critical thinking is understanding who is behind the content and why they are sharing it. Teens should ask themselves: Who is creating this content, and what is their motivation? Many influencers benefit financially from clicks, views, and controversy, which can shape the way they present information. It’s important to evaluate what emotions they are trying to provoke and why. Are they using anger, resentment, or fear to keep people engaged? Additionally, examining the credibility of the claims made is crucial. What evidence is provided, and is it reliable? Encouraging teens to consider opposing viewpoints can help them recognize bias and avoid falling into one-sided thinking. What if Question: You’re scrolling through social media and come across a video where an influencer claims, “Women only date guys with money; if you don’t have status, you’re invisible.” The comments are full of people agreeing. Questioning Manosphere Claims Many manosphere narratives rely on sweeping generalizations about men and women. Teens should question: “Does this claim apply to everyone, or is it an oversimplification?” If an influencer states that “all women are only attracted to wealth and status,” it’s worth reflecting on real-life examples of relationships that contradict this. Have I ever met real people who fit this description? If not, why is this claim so widely accepted online? Recognizing the diversity of human experiences helps dismantle rigid stereotypes and encourages more nuanced perspectives. What if Question: A popular manosphere influencer says, “Never show emotions because women will lose respect for you. Men should always be dominant.” Algorithm & Echo Chamber Awareness Teens may not realize that social media algorithms are designed to reinforce their existing beliefs by continuously feeding them similar content. If a teen notices that their feed is filled with the same types of videos, they should ask: Why do I keep seeing this content? and What perspectives am I not seeing? Being aware of these digital echo chambers is key to expanding one’s understanding. Teens should consider following creators with different viewpoints or actively searching for alternative perspectives to challenge their current beliefs. What if Question: You notice that after watching a few videos about masculinity, your social media feed is flooded with similar content, and you keep seeing the same arguments over … Continue reading How to Talk About Concerns Surrounding Manosphere Messaging With Teens to Stimulate Critical Thinking Rather Than Resistance