Researchers from Swansea University and the University of Texas at Austin have conducted a comprehensive study on the incel community, revealing key insights into this subgroup of men. The study surveyed 561 participants across the UK and US, in collaboration with the UK's Commission for Countering Extremism (CCE).
Incels, or involuntary celibates, are men who struggle to form sexual or romantic relationships. Some individuals identifying as incels have been linked to violent attacks in recent years. The research, published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior, presents a complex portrait of incels, highlighting diverse backgrounds and high prevalence of mental health issues.
Dr. Andrew G. Thomas from Swansea University stated: “Incels are often stereotyped in the media as young, white, right-wing men who are not in employment, education, or training. When we tested the accuracy of these stereotypes using primary data collection, we discovered misconceptions."
Key findings include that 37% of incels experience daily suicidal thoughts and 30% meet criteria for autism assessment referrals. Additionally, 48% report high loneliness levels and 86% have experienced bullying. Ethnically diverse, participants were 58% white and 42% people of color. Politically, they lean slightly left of center.
The study identified two factors contributing to harmful attitudes among incels: high autistic traits with histories of bullying and anti-social personality traits with extreme right-wing views.
Dr. Thomas noted: “Our findings highlight that there might be subgroups among incels that end up in the community for different reasons.”
Co-author Dr. Joe Whittaker emphasized the importance of rigorous academic research alongside public discussions facilitated by media portrayals like Netflix's Adolescence.
William Costello from the University of Texas at Austin added: “Incels are typically framed in terms of the threat they pose to others, but our findings suggest they may be just as dangerous...to themselves."
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