Unlocking the Truth: How Smartphones are Poisoning Boys’ Minds During Adolescence | Insights by Martha Gill

Every now and then, a TV show comes along that sparks real change. Last year, ITV’s Mr. Bates vs The Post Office highlighted the struggles of subpostmasters and helped push for new laws to compensate them. Now, Netflix’s Adolescence is grabbing attention for its portrayal of how young boys can be radicalized by figures like Andrew Tate, a well-known men’s rights activist. This series has resonated so much that even Keir Starmer mentioned it in Parliament, indicating that it raises an urgent issue worth our attention.

Addressing rising misogyny among boys driven by online influencers is critical. Experts are exploring what can be done. One perspective is that many young men feel a void in their lives. They may lack role models and self-esteem, which can drive them to seek guidance online. Gareth Southgate recently discussed this during a lecture, pointing to a growing “epidemic of fatherlessness” and declining participation in community activities where boys could meet positive influences. Without these figures, boys often turn to the internet for direction, where they can encounter harmful ideologies.

However, another viewpoint suggests that the real issue lies with the influencers themselves. In Adolescence, the main character, despite a loving family and positive role models, gets drawn into a toxic online culture that ultimately leads to violence. The writer, Jack Thorne, underscores a significant difference: while he read books as a child, this boy had access to a vast amount of online content that can mislead and manipulate.

Supporters of the first viewpoint advocate for youth programs and mentoring for boys. While these initiatives have merit, critics argue that just creating more options isn’t enough. An alarming statistic highlights this: a recent survey found that 40% of teenagers aged 14 to 17 spend at least six hours a day online—effectively the same as a full school day. With social media platforms designed to be addictive, why would they choose to engage in real-life activities?

The online world can offer an adrenaline rush that far surpasses real-life interactions. This constant engagement can make it difficult for young people to cultivate genuine relationships. On traditional platforms, missteps might get overlooked. Yet online, a single mistake can lead to lasting shame and insecurity. This vulnerability creates fertile ground for MRA influencers, who prey on young men’s desires for approval and status.

Moreover, the internet often amplifies grievances, hooking users into echo chambers of anger and resentment—especially when figures like Tate promise validation and societal empowerment. This makes it essential to consider not only how to encourage mentorship but also how to manage online access for teenagers.

Countries like France and Norway are already trialing social media restrictions for younger users. Could this be the path we need to take? As we navigate these challenges, it may be time to discuss whether we should set limits for teen access to social media.

The conversation around these issues is complex, and while there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, we must recognize the impact of modern culture on young minds. As we engage in this dialogue, keeping an eye on shifts in policy and community programs may guide us toward effective actions for the future.

For further reading on the influence of social media on youth behavior, check out the Pew Research Center.

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