New resource to help schools combat online misogyny and 'manosphere' influence
PSHE Association collaborates with University of York researchers on educational toolkit
A new teaching resource has been unveiled to assist secondary schools in tackling misogyny and the impact of the online 'manosphere'. Developed by the Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Association in partnership with researchers from the University of York, the programme includes free lesson plans, a podcast episode, and an on-demand training course.
The KS3-4 lesson materials aim to educate students on the effects of misogyny, why these ideas are false, and provide ways to challenge and limit the spread of harmful beliefs and attitudes.
Since its June launch, the lesson pack has been downloaded over 1,000 times and is expected to impact over 300,000 students in the coming months.
Addressing harmful online narratives
This initiative coincides with schools implementing updated statutory Relationship, Sex, and Health Education (RSHE) guidance, which prioritises challenging dangerous online narratives while affirming respectful interactions in young relationships.
Supported by the European Research Council, the resource package titled 'Challenging the narrative: Thinking critically about misogyny' draws on research concerning social learning, prejudice reduction, and attitude change.
To mark the rollout, a podcast episode featuring Professor Harriet Over from the University of York sheds light on the origins and economic incentives fuelling misogynistic content's online growth.
Encouraging critical thinking and respect
Professor Over underlined the optimistic prospects for fostering positive relationships: "It takes educators, families, and communities working together to support young people in developing healthy relationships and mutual respect."
Feedback from teachers using the resource is vital for continual improvement, aiding educators in navigating sensitive classroom dialogues effectively.
The resource package includes lesson plans focusing on online safety and critical thinking, a podcast dissecting online radicalisation business models, and a self-led course to boost teacher confidence.