In the classroom environment spanning Grade 8 to Grade 12, Annie Ohana frequently encounters ideas with harmful undertones. One incident that stood out was when a 15-year-old student questioned if a particular activity would affect his testosterone levels, despite lacking a full understanding of the hormone’s role. Ohana believes such misconceptions stem from online sources like the manosphere.
Recent research conducted by Angus Reid and White Ribbon sheds light on the prevalence of gendered stereotypes and misogynistic attitudes among Canadian educators and professionals in the education sector. The study revealed that four out of five individuals in the education field have witnessed instances of sexism and misogyny within classrooms.
Jonathon Reed, the director of programs at Next Gen Men, emphasizes the blurred boundaries between online and real-life interactions for today’s youth, facilitating the spread of harmful ideas through jokes and memes. Reed notes how influencers like Andrew Tate propagate misogynistic beliefs, which then permeate school environments through peer interactions.
Salsabel Almanssori, an education professor at the University of Windsor, highlights the role of social media in perpetuating harmful ideologies and normalizing toxic behaviors among students. She stresses the need for educators to familiarize themselves with such terms to address and engage in conversations with students effectively.
Almanssori advocates for legislative measures to tackle the root cause of online radicalization, citing examples from countries like the U.K. and Australia that have implemented restrictions on social media access for minors. While Almanssori acknowledges the challenges posed by social media, Reed suggests that fostering positive relationships between teachers and students can help combat unrealistic notions of masculinity.
In dealing with harmful remarks in classrooms, Reed recommends a constructive approach by initiating dialogues with students rather than resorting to shaming tactics. He also advises parents to maintain open communication with their children regarding online influences and to focus on building trust to address potential harms effectively.