Experts Highlight How Schools Can Tackle Misogyny Following Netflix Manosphere Documentary

Netflix Documentary Sparks Concern Over Rising Misogyny in Schools

A new documentary on Louis Theroux Investigates: The Manosphere has brought fresh attention to the issue of misogyny among children and young people, with education experts warning of its growing impact in schools.

The programme, fronted by Louis Theroux, explores the so-called ‘manosphere’, an online space where misogynistic views, opposition to feminism and toxic masculinity are promoted. In response, training provider High Speed Training has shared guidance on how schools can identify and tackle these behaviours.

What is misogyny?

Misogyny is defined as the hatred of women. It can present itself in different ways, including prejudice, contempt or violence towards women and girls. It is rooted in the belief that women are inferior because of their sex and reinforces harmful stereotypes about their role in society.

Dr Richard Anderson, Learning Experience Director at High Speed Training, said:
“Misogyny, like other forms of bias, can be both overt and subtle, ranging from casual comments and cat-calling to more extreme acts of violence towards women and girls. It’s crucial that we recognise and challenge all forms of misogyny, no matter how minor they may seem, because when left unaddressed, these behaviours can escalate into more dangerous extremist views and deeply entrenched attitudes.”

How misogyny appears in schools

According to the experts, misogynistic attitudes can develop when pupils are exposed to sexist content online and then repeat or discuss it in school.

If these views are not challenged, they can become normalised and lead to a range of harmful behaviours, including:

• Cyberbullying
• Sextortion
• Physical violence
• Vulgar language and cat calling
• Sharing intimate images without consent
• Harmful sexual behaviour
• Excluding female pupils from groups or spaces

Dr Anderson explained that these behaviours affect more than just individuals.
“These behaviours don’t just harm individual students and staff, it creates an entire environment where girls and women can feel unsafe, silenced, and angry.

“It also distorts young people’s understanding of respect, equality, and what healthy relationships should look like.”

Where young people are exposed

Children may encounter misogynistic views in different environments, including at home, on television, or online. Social media is highlighted as one of the most significant sources.

Some online personalities who promote controversial and sexist views are often idolised by young boys, which can encourage the spread of misogynistic rhetoric. These influences can act as a gateway into the manosphere, where more extreme views may develop.

The documentary also shows how seemingly harmless online interactions can lead to more aggressive attitudes towards women over time.

What schools can do

Experts say tackling misogyny requires a consistent and proactive approach across schools.

Recommended steps include:

• Introducing a zero tolerance approach to misogynistic behaviour across all areas of school life
• Learning to recognise the language, slang and symbols linked to these views
• Teaching pupils about healthy relationships, including respect, trust and equality
• Delivering regular lessons focused on challenging misogyny and harmful attitudes
• Making use of external educational resources to support staff

Dr Anderson said:
“One of the most effective ways to tackle misogyny is through education and training. By building knowledge and understanding, staff can better recognise the signs and respond with confidence.

“Training for educators plays a crucial role, as school staff are often on the front line when it comes to tackling social issues. Training such as Online Safety and Harms, Harmful Sexual Behaviour in Schools, and Prevent Duty Training equip professionals with the tools they need to address misogyny in a meaningful, informed and proactive way to effectively safeguard children and young people in education.”

For more guidance, readers can visit the High Speed Training Hub or read the article Misogyny in Schools: Guidance for Teachers.