Young men and Gen Z increasingly expressing opposition towards feminism.

A recent study, jointly conducted by the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Polarization & Extremism Research & Innovation Lab, aims to equip individuals with the necessary tools to recognize and prevent violence rooted in gender-based hate. This is the third in a series of resources co-created by the two organizations. It comes at a critical time, as the SPLC and PERIL have noted a significant increase in anti-feminist sentiments among the younger generation, particularly among Gen Z and young men.

Their research has shown a sharp rise in various forms of misogyny and gender-based bigotry in recent years. This includes a disturbing increase in male supremacist violence, which is now being recognized as a form of domestic violent extremism. This includes threats, plots, and actual attacks by misogynist incels. The SPLC and PERIL also point out that this is not surprising, given the rise in discriminatory legislation across the country. Many of these laws are based on anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs, which often overlap with other forms of discrimination.

The study highlights the fact that black women, girls, and transgender women are particularly vulnerable to harm and violence at the intersection of anti-Black racism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, and misogyny. These vulnerable groups are often targeted and victimized by individuals who hold discriminatory beliefs and attitudes.

So where is this surge in hate happening? According to the SPLC and PERIL, much of it is taking place online. This includes video game chats, social media comments, memes, and short-form videos. There are even Reddit pages dedicated to manipulating and degrading women, which the researchers refer to as the "manosphere." This online space is a collection of blogs, forums, and websites where individuals mobilize around misogyny and toxic masculinity.

The manosphere brings together various male supremacist groups, who, according to the SPLC and PERIL, feel entitled to women's bodies, time, and attention. These groups often blame women for not meeting their expectations and promote anti-feminist rhetoric. The study notes that these groups have gained a significant following, with one influencer, Andrew Tate, being one of Google's most-searched individuals in 2022.

However, the study also highlights the offline pathways to radicalization. These include gaming chats, following "self-help influencers" on social media, and young girls and women researching "trad wife influencers," among others. Parents and teachers should be on the lookout for signs of radicalization in young people, such as expressing sympathy for extreme and hateful views, changes in speech patterns, a desire to restore perceived loss of status, and self-isolation.

The study suggests that parents and caregivers should start talking to their children about these issues from an early age. Research shows that young people can solidify their beliefs by the age of 10. It is also essential to discuss internet safety and promote peer-to-peer support.

For more information and a comprehensive list of resources, visit splcenter.org/peril and perilresearch.com. Let's work together to combat gender-based hate and promote a more inclusive and equal society for all.

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