Help researchers combat the ‘manosphere’

IEU members in secondary schools are encouraged to participate in an important study into the effect of misogynistic online content on boys and young men and how it affects teachers.

To participate, email: SupportingSchools@monash.edu

The program will run online during August and September. Optional evaluation activities will follow until December.

It is a collaboration between the Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre and Monash University aiming to support secondary teachers responding to misogynistic online content that is shaping attitudes among boys and young men that often leads to bullying or aggressive behaviour.

The manosphere includes websites and influencers who promote anti-feminist, sexist and controlling ideas. Research has shown that these messages are filtering into schools, negatively affecting student behaviour and undermining gender equality efforts.

To address this, the project team has developed a professional learning program with input from young people and school staff.

This initiative comes at a critical time, as schools seek practical tools to counter online misogyny, promote respectful relationships, and ensure a safe, equitable learning environment. The IEU is keen to support support research that helps to ensure frontline educators have a safer workplace.