Manosphere and safeguarding - Operam Education Group

Focus: Online Influences, Early Safeguarding Indicators, Digital Awareness

Manosphere and Safeguarding in Schools

As online influences continue to shape the attitudes and behaviour of young people, understanding the connection between the manosphere and safeguarding has become increasingly important for educators. This emerging digital space often promotes harmful ideologies around masculinity and gender, making it vital for school staff to recognise early signs and respond effectively within the classroom environment.

The Netflix mini-series Adolescence has ignited widespread discussions about the online environments young people engage with, particularly the emergence of the “manosphere” and its impact on teenage boys

Indeed, over the past year, educators have seen a rise in online ideologies influencing students particularly boys. One area of concern is the manosphere: a network of online communities that promote extreme views around masculinity, relationships, and gender dynamics.

Often masked as motivational or ‘self-improvement’ content, these messages can embed harmful ideas and language that show up subtly in school environments. Early intervention starts with awareness to understand how manosphere and safeguarding are linked

What is the Manosphere?

The manosphere spans platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit, and often includes content around:

Male entitlement or victimhood
Anti-feminist or misogynistic messages
‘Alpha male’ superiority
Distrust of women or ‘traditional’ gender roles

Young people are often drawn in through influencers who use humour, confidence, and direct language to attract followers. It’s persuasive—and it spreads fast.

Coded Language: The Role of Emojis

One way these communities communicate is through coded emojis—symbols that carry meaning within certain online circles. These often appear in group chats, comments, or even classroom doodles.

Some examples to be aware of:

Red Pill – Signifies awakening to the “truth” about men being disadvantaged by society.
100 – Linked to the belief that most women seek only a small percentage of dominant men.
Biceps – Celebrates dominance and hyper-masculinity, often tied to gym culture.
Fire – Used to endorse manosphere statements or behaviour.
Crown – Represents male supremacy or “being the king.”
Skull – Seen in incel groups, indicating hopelessness or resignation around dating.
Cold Face – Symbolises emotional detachment and stoicism in men.

These emojis may seem harmless in isolation, but in certain contexts, they may signal a deeper engagement with harmful ideologies. Download our free emoji explainer guide to help you identify the subtle symbols and language linked to the manosphere designed to support safeguarding awareness in schools

Safeguarding Indicators to Look Out For

A sudden shift in attitude toward girls or women
Repeating influencer-style phrases (“stay alpha,” “beta male” etc.)
Increased use of coded emojis or “inside jokes” online
Isolation from female peers or increased bravado in male groups
Dismissive attitudes toward emotional expression or equality discussions

What You Can Do

Model Respectful Language: Challenge casual misogyny or disrespect early.
Stay Curious: Ask students about influencers they follow and encourage critical thinking.
Open Conversations: Create a safe space for respectful dialogue about identity and relationships.
Flag Concerns: Don’t hesitate to log and report any behavioural changes, particularly if they involve derogatory language or exclusion.
Refer to the DSL: If in doubt, speak to the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead for further guidance.

Manosphere and Safeguarding Summary

This isn’t about knowing every internet trend it’s about being alert to the digital influences shaping student behaviour. By understanding the manosphere and its symbols, you’re better equipped to spot early warning signs and support pupils before harm is done.

Safeguarding in 2025 goes beyond the school gates—it now includes understanding what happens behind a screen.

Learn more about our safeguarding and compliance process here.

To support staff in navigating online risks like the manosphere, the UK Safer Internet Centre offers practical guidance and resources tailored for schools and educators.