Workshop on Misogyny & Digital Influence

Overview

Students today are growing up in a digital environment where ideas about relationships, gender, and behaviour are shaped as much by online content as by real-life experience. From social media trends to influencer narratives, repeated exposure to certain messages can normalise disrespect, reinforce stereotypes, and influence how young people see themselves and others.

This workshop helps students make sense of that environment. It explores how influence works, how attitudes are formed, and how online narratives—including misogynistic content—can shape behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.

What the session covers

Students will:

• Understand how online influence works, including the role of algorithms, repetition, and reinforcement

• Recognise modern forms of misogyny, including everyday language, humour, and attitudes that may be dismissed as harmless

• Explore how certain online communities and narratives (including incel-related content) develop and spread

• Examine how these ideas influence real-world behaviour, peer dynamics, and relationship expectations

• Identify early warning signs in language, behaviour, and online interactions

How the session is delivered

The session is structured, interactive, and grounded in real-life scenarios. Students are encouraged to think critically about what they see online and how it influences behaviour—without blame or judgement.

Through guided discussion, practical examples, and clear frameworks, students develop the confidence to question, challenge, and respond to harmful narratives.

What students will gain

Students will leave with:

• A clear understanding of how online content shapes thinking and behaviour

• The ability to recognise harmful influence and challenge it appropriately

• Greater confidence to think independently rather than follow group or online pressure

• A practical understanding of respect, boundaries, and accountability in relationships

Why this matters for schools

Schools are increasingly seeing the impact of online influence in:

• student language and behaviour

• relationship dynamics

• peer culture and expectations

This workshop provides a structured and balanced way to address these issues—supporting schools to promote a respectful, informed, and inclusive environment while meeting safeguarding responsibilities.