Online hate: misogyny
Learn what misogyny is and how it can have a negative impact on your child’s life and those around them.
On this page
- What is misogyny
- Why you should talk to your child about misogyny
- Spotting the signs
- How you can support your son or daughter
What is misogyny
Misogyny is when someone dislikes, disrespects, or treats women or girls unfairly.
Online this kind of behaviour could include:
- making sexist, disrespectful or degrading comments
- using intimidating, threatening, or violent language towards women
- content that blames women for men’s negative behaviour
- promoting or sharing content that discriminates against women’s rights
This type of online behaviour can also lead to acts of hate and violence in real life.
Did you know?
A 2025 survey by Girlguiding, showed that 32% of 11 to 18-year-olds have seen a teacher or staff member receive misogynistic comments.
Why you should talk to your child about misogyny
Misogyny, online and in real life is a growing problem.
The consequences of misogyny, sexism, and reinforcing stereotypes on children and young people can be harmful – socially, emotionally, and physically.
Ignoring it can normalise unacceptable behaviours and misogyny can lead to more extreme actions like violence against women.
Did you know?
A 2025 survey by Girlguiding, found that 56% of 11–16-year-olds had heard boys’ comments that made them feel uncomfortable. 28% had heard comments that made them scared for their safety.
Spotting the signs of misogyny
Online algorithms and toxic influencers are pushing misogyny into mainstream to generate views and money. This kind of content has a real-life negative impact on the children and young people that watch it.
Being able to spot the signs that your child has seen or believes misogynistic content can make it easier to recognise when they need support.
These may be different for every child, but many will be similar.
Spotting the signs of misogynistic behaviours
Signs that your child might have seen or believe misogynistic content could be:
- using language which insults or generalises women and girls
- mocking kindness or empathy as being ‘weak’
- being critical of themselves, their body or appearance in comparison to others
- following social media ‘alpha male’ accounts, which promote controlling behaviour
- increased anger, aggression or dismissiveness towards female family members, peers, or teachers
The long-term impact of misogyny
Boys and young men who believe misogynistic ideas are at greater risk of:
- mental health issues (including low self-esteem, self-harm and suicide)
- difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
- committing sexual harassment/sexual offences
- committing violent crimes
- being radicalised by extreme beliefs
How you can support your son or daughter
Find information and steps you can take to help support your son or daughter against online hate.
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