Navigating the Influence of Masculinity Influencers: A Call for Balance and Support

Date: Saturday 26 Apr 2025

A recent study by Movember has revealed that 61% of young men in the UK regularly engage with masculinity influencers. This statistic underscores a growing trend: the manosphere, a digital space often associated with rigid and harmful views of masculinity, has shifted from the fringes to the mainstream. While these influencers may offer entertainment, motivation, and thought-provoking content, the study highlights a more complex reality—one that demands our attention and action.

The Allure of Masculinity Influencers

For many young men, masculinity influencers provide a sense of connection and purpose. The study found that 50% of young men in the UK who engage with these influencers find their content entertaining, 47% consider it motivating, and 43% appreciate how it challenges their thinking. These figures suggest that influencers are filling a void, offering guidance and inspiration in a world where traditional notions of masculinity are being questioned.

However, this allure comes with a cost. The same study reveals that young men who regularly watch these influencers are more likely to experience emotional distress. They report feeling restless, sad, and worthless at slightly higher rates than their non-engaged peers. This paradox—seeking motivation but encountering distress—highlights the need for a more balanced and supportive approach to addressing young men’s mental health.

The Impact on Beliefs and Attitudes

The influence of these digital figures extends beyond individual emotions to shape broader beliefs about masculinity and gender roles. Among young men who engage with masculinity influencers, 53% believe that men should fix their own lives without asking for help, and 83% see men as primary providers. These restrictive views not only perpetuate outdated stereotypes but also discourage men from seeking the support they need.

Moreover, the study found that influencer-engaged men are more likely to hold limiting attitudes toward women. For instance, 70% believe that women have it easier than men, and 67% think feminism is used to suppress men. These beliefs not only harm relationships but also reinforce a divisive narrative that hinders progress toward gender equality.

A Path Forward: Diverse Perspectives and Real Conversations

As Sarah Sternberg from Movember aptly points out, young men are seeking guidance, inspiration, and real conversations about what it means to be a man today. This is where platforms like Brothers in Arms and Blethr can make a significant impact. By offering diverse perspectives and fostering open, stigma-free discussions, we can challenge the harmful narratives perpetuated by some influencers and provide young men with the tools they need to thrive.

Blethr, our flagship digital buddy, is designed to support men in recognising and expressing their emotions. It offers a safe space for real conversations, helping users navigate the complexities of their inner worlds. For young men grappling with the pressures of modern masculinity, Blethr can be a lifeline—a place to explore their feelings without judgment and find constructive ways to grow.

Empowering Young Men to Redefine Masculinity

The findings of this study serve as a wake-up call. While masculinity influencers may offer temporary motivation, they often reinforce harmful stereotypes and contribute to emotional distress. It’s our responsibility to provide young men with alternative narratives—ones that celebrate vulnerability, encourage self-awareness, and promote mental wellbeing.

At Brothers in Arms, we are committed to breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Through innovative tools like Blethr and a focus on early intervention, we aim to empower men to redefine what it means to be strong, resilient, and emotionally intelligent. Together, we can create a future where young men feel supported, understood, and inspired to reach their full potential.

If you’re ready to take the first step on this journey, I encourage you to explore Blethr at https://bia.blethr.app/. Let’s work together to build a healthier, more inclusive vision of masculinity—one conversation at a time.

Need Help Starting the Conversation?

As a resource, BraveheartGPT, our co-pilot for men's mental wellbeing, is here to provide information on this topic and offer advice on how to engage with a young man about online influencers. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or friend, he can help you navigate these discussions with empathy and understanding. Feel free to ask for tips, conversation starters, or insights into how to approach this sensitive subject below. Together, we can make a difference.

The full Movember report is available here: https://uk.movember.com/movember-institute/masculinities-report