It’s not always easy to tell when a young person is being influenced by harmful online communities. Noticing behaviours can be an opportunity to check in, start a conversation, and offer support. Here are some key things to look out for:
Increased self-doubt or low confidence
Use of incel-specific terms or phrases
Expressing hostility towards women or relationships
Becoming more withdrawn or secretive
Heightened frustration or anger
How to Start the Conversation
Talking about these topics with your child can feel daunting, but an open and non-judgmental approach can help. Consider starting with questions like:
What do you think makes a healthy relationship?
Do you think it’s fair to blame one group of people for personal difficulties?
How do you decide whether something you read online is trustworthy?
Understanding incel communities and their influence on young people can feel overwhelming. Keeping communication open, encouraging critical thinking, and providing a safe space for discussion can help your child build resilience against harmful influences they may come across.
