Student Wellbeing

Understanding “Inside the Manosphere”: A Wellbeing Perspective for Our College Community

As a Psychotherapist working with adolescents and a father of two, I am always attentive to the influences shaping the attitudes, identities, and relationships of the young people in our care. Netflix’s recent documentary exploring the “manosphere” has sparked important conversations in schools, homes, and wider communities - and it is one worth unpacking together.

The documentary sheds light on a loosely connected online ecosystem that promotes narrow and, at times, harmful ideas about masculinity, gender roles, and relationships. While not all content within this space is overtly extreme, the underlying messages can reinforce rigid stereotypes: that men must be dominant, emotionally stoic, and entitled to power, while women are positioned in limiting and unequal ways. For adolescents still forming their identities, repeated exposure to these narratives can quietly shape beliefs, behaviours, and expectations.

At a school level, we are seeing firsthand how digital content influences students’ thinking, sometimes in subtle ways. Comments, jokes, or attitudes that might seem harmless on the surface can reflect deeper assumptions about gender. This is why our wellbeing work places such a strong emphasis on critical thinking, respectful relationships, and emotional literacy.

One of the key initiatives supporting this work at our College is our continued partnership with Tomorrow Man & The Common Ground. Through their workshops, our Year 10 students are given space to explore what it means to be a young man today, beyond stereotypes. Students are encouraged to question outdated norms, develop emotional awareness, and build the confidence to express vulnerability in healthy ways. Importantly, these sessions also help students recognise the pressures they may feel to ‘fit’ a particular version of masculinity, and to understand that strength can coexist with empathy, respect, and openness.

Breaking down gender stereotypes is not about criticising boys or diminishing their experiences; rather, it is about expanding the possibilities available to all young people. When students feel free to be themselves (without the constraints of rigid gender expectations) they are more likely to form authentic relationships, seek help when needed, and contribute positively to their communities.

In this conversation, the role of fathers and father figures cannot be overstated. Young people learn as much from what they see as from what they are told. Fathers and father figures who model respect, emotional expression, and equality provide a powerful counter-narrative to the messages often encountered online. Simple, everyday actions such as listening without judgement, showing care, apologising when necessary, and demonstrating healthy relationships leave lasting impressions. For fathers, this does not mean having all the answers. In fact, acknowledging uncertainty and being open to learning alongside their children can be incredibly impactful. Conversations about what young people are seeing online (approached with curiosity rather than criticism) can help build trust and encourage critical reflection.

As a College Community, our shared goal is to equip students with the skills to navigate an increasingly complex digital world. This includes helping them question the content they consume, understand its impact, and make choices aligned with respect and integrity.

The ‘Inside the Manosphere’ documentary serves as a timely reminder that these conversations are not optional, they are essential. By working together we can support our young people to develop into thoughtful, respectful, and emotionally intelligent adults.

If this topic raises questions or concerns for your family, please don’t hesitate to reach out. These are conversations worth having, and we are here to support you.

counselling@stbedes.catholic.edu.au

9582 5999

Scott Cadby, PACFA Reg. Clinical (21605)

Psychotherapist

BA (Psych) MPsychotherapyCouns

College Counsellor and Wellbeing Coordinator

How Students Can Access Counselling

Self-referring to the Wellbeing Coordinator counselling@stbedes.catholic.edu.au
Drop-in to our Wellbeing Office at our Mentone Campus (near the Chapel gardens)
Requesting a referral from their Homeroom/Tutor Group teacher, Year Level/House Coordinator on their behalf
Requesting a referral from their Parent/Guardian on their behalf (either via counselling@stbedes.catholic.edu.au or 9582 5999)

College Counselling is tailored to each specific student and can be offered one-on-one or in a group context. Support can also last from a ‘one-off’ session to weekly/ongoing appointments.

How Families Can Support Their Sons

As parents/guardians, your role in your child’s wellbeing is invaluable. Some ways you can assist your child include:

Helping them establish a balanced routine that includes time for study, relaxation, and hobbies
Encouraging healthy sleep habits and a nutritious diet to support their overall wellbeing
Being attentive to changes in their behaviour or mood, and gently ask how they are feeling if and when you notice any changes
Promoting positive self-talk and help them set realistic goals for themselves
Modelling healthy coping strategies, such as managing stress or problem-solving constructively
Celebrating their achievements, no matter how small, to boost their confidence
Encouraging open conversations about their feelings and experiences – but accept and understand if and when they may not want to open up to you (if this is the case encourage them to seek help elsewhere)
Encouraging and reassuring them that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness
Staying informed about the services and resources the school offers

If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing or feel that they could benefit from additional support, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Year Level or House coordinator of myself. Our staff work in partnership with you to ensure your child’s wellbeing is prioritised.

Scott Cadby, PACFA Reg. Clinical (21605)

Psychotherapist

BA (Psych) MPsychotherapyCouns

College Counsellor and Wellbeing Coordinator