Talking About Toxic Masculinity: How You Can Support Your Child
- A Marsden
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
The teenage years are a time when young people are figuring out who they are, how they fit into the world, and what it means to “be a man” or “be a woman.” But for many boys, that journey is being shaped by harmful messages — often spread online — about what it means to be “successful,” “strong,” or “masculine.”
This is known as toxic masculinity, and it can have a damaging impact on young people’s behaviour, relationships, and wellbeing. At Compass Education, we see how online influencers, peer groups, and social media are pushing outdated and dangerous ideas that encourage aggression, disrespect, and emotional shut-down in boys and young men.
What is Toxic Masculinity?
Toxic masculinity isn’t about saying boys or men are bad. It’s about challenging harmful beliefs that tell boys they should:
✔ Hide emotions or “man up” when they’re struggling
✔ Use aggression or dominance to prove strength
✔ Be in control, especially over girls or women
✔ See success as money, power, or status — no matter the cost
✔ Look down on anything seen as “weak” or “feminine”
Sadly, many young people are now hearing these messages loud and clear from online influencers. Figures like Andrew Tate have built huge followings by promoting aggressive, sexist, and controlling ideas about what it means to be a man. Young boys, who are still developing confidence and identity, can easily be drawn in by these ideas — especially if they feel insecure or unsure of their place in the world.
Why It’s a Problem
These harmful messages can:
✔ Lead to bullying, aggression, or violent behaviour
✔ Damage self-esteem and emotional wellbeing
✔ Create unhealthy relationships based on control, not respect
✔ Stop boys from asking for help or expressing vulnerability
✔ Isolate young people from positive role models
✔ Contribute to a school environment where girls and boys feel unsafe
Toxic masculinity doesn’t just harm others — it stops boys from being their true, confident selves.
How You Can Support Your Child
Your influence at home is one of the strongest tools in helping your child challenge harmful messages and build a healthier sense of masculinity.
Here’s how to help:
✔ Talk openly about feelings. Let your son know it’s normal — and healthy — to express sadness, fear, or vulnerability. Real strength is about being honest with ourselves.
✔ Challenge harmful online influences. If your child talks about figures like Andrew Tate, don’t dismiss or shut them down. Stay curious — ask “What do you like about him?” or “What parts of that message worry you?” and gently challenge the dangerous ideas.
✔ Promote positive role models. Point out men in your family, school, or the media who show kindness, responsibility, and emotional maturity. Success isn’t just money or status — it’s about character.
✔ Encourage respectful relationships. Talk about how real confidence means respecting others, especially in friendships and dating. Being kind and fair isn’t weakness — it’s strength.
✔ Keep communication open. The more your child feels safe talking to you, the more likely they are to question harmful influences and make healthy choices.
Where to Find More Support
If you’re concerned your child is being drawn into harmful online spaces or struggling with peer pressure around masculinity, speak to their school or explore:
With your support, your child can reject harmful stereotypes, resist toxic influences, and grow into a confident, respectful, and emotionally healthy young man.
Comments