You probably know your teen spends a lot of time online, but do you know who he’s paying attention to?

For many parents, teachers, and caregivers, the internet can feel like a mystery. Teen boys scroll through tons of videos, memes, and messages—some are harmless, but others quietly influence how they think about themselves and the world around them. It’s easy for young people to get drawn into online spaces where influencers promote old-school, tough-guy ideas about being a man, without anyone even realizing it.

Netflix’s Adolescence gives a powerful look at how quickly boys can get caught up in toxic online communities that push narrow and often harmful ideas about masculinity. The show doesn’t just tell a story—it shows what today’s boys are really up against.

So, how does this part of the internet shape teen boys? What are the effects of toxic masculinity online? And most importantly, how can you help?

The manosphere is a group of online spaces, like forums, podcasts, and videos, where people share and support extreme views about what it means to be a man.

At first, this kind of content might seem like it’s about motivation or self-improvement. But if you look closer, it often pushes ideas about being in control, hiding feelings, and following old-fashioned gender roles. It promotes a version of manhood that doesn’t allow for vulnerability, empathy, or personal growth.

Most teen boys don’t go out looking for the “manosphere,” but it often finds them. YouTube, for example, recommends similar videos to keep people watching. So if a boy watches one video about “confidence” or “how to be a man,” the algorithm might keep showing more content from the manosphere. Apps like TikTok and Instagram do the same, often showing short videos that push these messages in obvious or hidden ways. Plus, group chats and peer pressure can lead to even more exposure.

These communities are popular because they speak to real feelings, like fear of rejection or not being good enough. Many teen boys are just starting to figure out who they are, how to date, or how they feel about themselves. The manosphere gives simple answers: blame others (especially women) and choose power over connection. It treats emotional struggles as weakness and tells boys to shut down instead of opening up.

That’s why it’s important for adults to know that these ideas don’t just stay online. They can affect how boys think, behave, and treat others in everyday life. Early conversations, teaching media literacy, and showing boys positive role models can make a big difference. These tools help boys develop a more balanced, genuine version of masculinity.

Beneath the surface of bravado and sarcasm, the series reveals something far more vulnerable: boys who are lonely, confused, and starved for meaningful connection. 

It captures what many parents and educators sense but can’t always name—boys who are hurting but don’t know how (or if) they’re allowed to say it aloud.

Adolescence also pulls back the curtain on the appeal of dangerous male role models like Andrew Tate, who is name-dropped more than once in the series. Tate and others like him sell an image of power, control, and success—but at a cost. Their message is clear: empathy is weakness, women are the enemy, and emotions are something to conquer, not understand. For boys who feel invisible or powerless, that kind of messaging can be dangerously seductive.

Society reinforces this, too. Whether on the sports field, in the classroom, or at home, boys are often told to toughen up, be strong, and push through. Vulnerability isn’t just discouraged—it’s actively shamed. What Adolescence gets right is the mental toll this takes. It shows the internal conflict boys face when they want to feel but don’t know how, or don’t believe they’re allowed to.

For teen boys figuring out who they are, social media doesn’t just show what culture is like—it helps create it.

Social media platforms are places where a lot of boys go for advice, connection, or just to have fun. But behind what they see is an algorithm that doesn’t reward thoughtful content—it rewards anger and shock. And that’s when things can turn harmful.

On YouTube, a boy might start by watching a video about confidence or working out. Before long, the platform starts showing him videos that attack feminism, promote dominance, or claim that vulnerability is a weakness. The algorithm pushes extreme content because it gets more attention, likes, comments, and shares—even if the message is harmful. The more shocking the video, the more it spreads.

Reddit forums like r/TheRedPill or r/Braincels take it further. These communities often praise toxic masculinity and shut down anyone who disagrees. They make fun of feelings, show disrespect toward women, and act like empathy is a flaw. For boys who feel lost or alone, these spaces might seem welcoming, even if they send the wrong message.

TikTok works the same way. Popular influencers use short, catchy videos to spread ideas about what it means to be a “real man.” Some of these messages include anger, control, and hate—but they’re disguised as strength or confidence. Because the videos are quick and viral, they’re easy to absorb.

The real risk is that this content doesn’t just show boys harmful ideas—it makes those ideas seem normal. Over time, it can change how they think, how they act, and how they treat others. And if no one helps them think critically, they might believe harmful messages are actually helpful.

That’s why trusted adults are so important. The answer isn’t banning social media—it’s helping boys talk about what they’re seeing and guiding them to think more deeply about who they want to become.

Digital radicalization can lead to real-world consequences like violence, harassment, broken relationships, and harmful beliefs that affect how someone treats others and makes decisions.

A 2023 study by Equimundo found that many young men feel disconnected from real-life relationships, and nearly half said they trust harmful online voices more than positive role models in their lives. This growing sense of isolation can lead them to online spaces that seem to understand their struggles, but often, these spaces promote harmful messages and extremist beliefs. Instead of finding support and useful ways to cope, these boys are exposed to content that fuels anger, resentment, and even hate.

One example is the rise of the “manosphere” and influencers like Andrew Tate. While they claim to offer advice on confidence and success, their messages often include sexist and violent ideas. They present women as less valuable and glorify control and dominance. These ideas don’t stay on the internet—they show up in how boys talk, treat others, and handle relationships. Schools and communities are seeing more cases of harassment, bullying, and aggression tied to these influences.

The effects of digital radicalization go far beyond the screen. They damage friendships, strain family bonds, and create unsafe environments in classrooms and neighborhoods. When young people buy into extremist beliefs, it shapes how they see the world, and not in a good way.

That’s why it’s so important for adults to stay involved. Parents, teachers, and caregivers need to be aware of the warning signs, have open discussions, and offer safe spaces where boys can express themselves without judgment. Positive role models, media literacy, and strong support systems can help prevent digital radicalization and guide young men toward more respectful and balanced ways of thinking and living.

The most important thing adults can give is a safe and supportive relationship where young men feel understood and accepted without judgment.

Start by having regular talks with your teen. Ask open-ended questions and let them know it’s okay not to have everything figured out. When they do open up, listen carefully—don’t rush to fix things or dismiss how they feel. Listening without judgment builds trust, and that trust makes deeper connections possible.

It’s also important to create safe and supportive spaces. Whether at home or in school, make it normal to talk about tough experiences like anger, sadness, fear, or confusion. Let boys know that struggling on the inside doesn’t make them weak. Show them how to open up in healthy ways, and recognize when they’re honest about what they’re going through.

Understanding what boys are seeing online is just as important. Learn about terms used in harmful online spaces—like “alpha,” “simp,” “incel,” or “red pill.” These words may seem harmless, but they’re often tied to toxic messages. Even some emojis are used to send hidden meanings that most adults might miss. Knowing this language can help you spot early warning signs and begin open discussions before those harmful ideas take hold.

The truth is, you don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is being present, asking questions, and staying open. When boys know they have someone who truly listens and supports them, it can make all the difference. That’s how you help them grow into people who think for themselves and treat others with respect.

You should consider therapy for your teen if they seem emotionally upset, start acting differently, or have trouble handling everyday challenges.

Some challenges are bigger than what a supportive home or classroom can handle alone. If a teen boy is having frequent outbursts, shutting down, avoiding friends and family, or talking about feeling hopeless or worthless, it might be time to bring in professional help.

Other warning signs include big changes in sleep, eating habits, grades, or a sudden interest in extreme online content. These aren’t just “phases” that will pass—they’re signs that he may be struggling with something more serious, like depression, anxiety, or trauma that hasn’t been addressed.

Getting help doesn’t mean anyone has failed. Therapy can give boys the tools to better understand what they’re going through and help them handle stress, pressure, or pain in constructive ways. It gives them a private space to talk freely, without judgment, and to learn how to speak up and deal with what’s going on inside.

For boys who have been influenced by toxic online content, harsh gender expectations, or early life challenges, trauma-informed care can make a big difference. These approaches take into account how deeply certain beliefs or experiences can affect someone and help boys move forward without feeling ashamed.

Normalizing therapy for boys helps change outdated ideas about toughness. Real strength isn’t about keeping everything inside—it’s about knowing when to ask for help. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of bravery and self-respect.

How Pacific Health Group can help

Getting support early can make a big difference. Real healing starts when teen boys are met with patience, understanding, and a safe space to talk about what they’re going through. Whether they’re struggling with identity, stress, or harmful messages they’ve seen online, they don’t have to face it alone—and neither do you.

Pacific Health Group offers caring, supportive mental and behavioral health services made for teens and their families. Our one-on-one therapy sessions help boys open up and learn how to manage tough thoughts and experiences. Family counseling can also build stronger communication and connection at home. If you’re a parent feeling unsure about your teen’s online world, family therapy can guide you in setting boundaries, spotting warning signs, and having important discussions before things get more serious. We also offer Telehealth options, so families can access care in a way that fits into their schedules.

You don’t have to wait until there’s a crisis. If your teen is having a hard time—or if you just want to be prepared—reach out today. Call 1-877-811-1217 or visit www.mypacifichealth.com to learn more.