A new documentary by Louis Theroux has brought renewed attention to the rise of misogyny among young people, with education experts warning schools must take a more active role in tackling the issue.

The programme, Louis Theroux Investigates The Manosphere, explores how online spaces are shaping attitudes towards women and influencing behaviour among children and teenagers.

Education and safeguarding specialists say the impact is increasingly being felt in classrooms, where online content is being repeated, shared and normalised.

Misogyny, defined as hatred or prejudice against women, can appear in both subtle and overt forms, from language and attitudes through to more serious behaviour.

Dr Richard Anderson said:

“Misogyny, like other forms of bias, can be both overt and subtle, ranging from casual comments and cat-calling to more extreme acts of violence towards women and girls.

“It’s crucial that we recognise and challenge all forms of misogyny, no matter how minor they may seem, because when left unaddressed, these behaviours can escalate into more dangerous extremist views and deeply entrenched attitudes.”

Experts say schools are increasingly seeing behaviours linked to misogyny, including online abuse, exclusion of female pupils and harmful sexual behaviour.

They warn that when these attitudes go unchallenged, they risk becoming embedded, creating an environment where girls and young women feel unsafe or silenced.

Dr Richard Anderson said:

“These behaviours don’t just harm individual students and staff, it creates an entire environment where girls and women can feel unsafe, silenced, and angry.

“It also distorts young people’s understanding of respect, equality, and what healthy relationships should look like.”

Much of the concern centres on online exposure, with social media platforms and digital communities playing a significant role.

The documentary highlights how some online spaces promote misogyny, opposition to feminism and toxic masculinity, often drawing in young audiences.

Experts say what may begin as casual engagement can develop into more extreme attitudes if left unchecked.

Schools are being urged to take a consistent and long term approach, embedding clear expectations and education around respect and equality.

This includes recognising emerging language and behaviours, teaching healthy relationships and providing structured lessons that directly challenge harmful views.

Training for teachers is also seen as essential, helping staff to identify issues early and respond with confidence.

Dr Richard Anderson said:

“One of the most effective ways to tackle misogyny is through education and training.

“By building knowledge and understanding, staff can better recognise the signs and respond with confidence.

“Training for educators plays a crucial role, as school staff are often on the front line when it comes to tackling social issues.”

The discussion comes as schools across the UK continue to navigate the challenges of online influence and its impact on behaviour in the classroom.

As awareness grows, experts say early intervention and education remain key to preventing harmful attitudes from taking hold.