Trial lecture - time and place
Adjudication committee
- Professor May-Len Skilbrei, University of Oslo (leader)
- Professor Debbie Ging, Dublin City University
- Professor Lucas Gottzén, Stockholm University
Chair of defence
- Head of Department Helene Oppen Ingebrigtsen Gundhus
Supervisors
- Professor Sveinung Sandberg
- Associate Professor Lisa Sugiura
Summary
The internet: A doubled-edged sword for men’s identity and masculinity
The internet and social media are key resources for young boys and men seeking answers about masculinity, dating, sex, and body image.
However, this search can lead them to the incel subculture, which is often associated with harmful perceptions of women and violence. This raises an important question: How does this subculture affect young men's identity and views on masculinity?
Understanding the incel subculture
“Incels”, or involuntary celibates, are heterosexual men who feel rejected by women and blame this on perceived flaws in their appearance and social skills. The media often depicts them as a monolithic group driven by hatred towards women, which reinforces negative stereotypes.
My research explores the complexities within the incel subculture by analyzing their online behaviors and conducting interviews with men who identify or have previously identified as incels.
Discovering important nuances
Although the incel subculture can be dangerous, as individuals connected to this environment have committed acts of violence and murder as revenge against society, the group is far from homogeneous.
The dissertation reveals how incels negotiate their identity and how they experience stigma and pressure related to masculinity. Many incels struggle with low self-esteem, shame, and loneliness, sharing stories of their challenges despite the provocative and hostile tone that often characterizes discussions on forums.
Recognizing diversity within the group
The research shows that the incel subculture encompasses a spectrum of identities and views. Participants vary in their level of involvement over time; some embrace incel as a subcultural identity with misogynistic views, while others use the label more as a descriptive term for their life situation and are thus less invested in the community.
In a time characterized by complex gender norms, the incel milieu offers a space for young men to explore alternative and oppositional identities of masculinity. My research indicates that many find meaning in these communities and emphasizes the importance of avoiding a one-sided focus on violence to understand the motivations of those who participate.