Inside Your Teen’s Feed: The Hidden Messages Shaping Boys Online
A new report by Common Sense Media reveals that most adolescent boys in the U.S. are regularly exposed to troubling online content promoting “digital masculinity”, messages about dominance, fighting, money, and unrealistic ideals of manhood.
The survey, which included over 1,000 boys aged 11 to 17, found that 73% of them encounter such content frequently, often without searching for it.
Researchers warn that this exposure is linked to lower self-esteem, loneliness, and emotional repression, as boys who engage more with this content tend to believe they should hide feelings like sadness or fear.
The study also found that 91% of boys see body image messages, while 69% regularly encounter content reinforcing gender stereotypes about girls.
Michael Robb, head of research at Common Sense Media, explained that these algorithms exploit adolescent vulnerabilities: “The content just shows up, boys aren’t seeking it out, but the platforms have learned they’ll engage with it.”
Experts say the findings raise alarm about how social media platforms shape identity during adolescence, a critical stage of emotional development.
They call for open conversations between parents and teens about online influence, helping children question what they see and think critically about digital narratives.
Psychologists advise parents to engage teens in safe, judgment-free discussions, encourage emotional openness, and provide positive male role models in real life, people who show that masculinity can include empathy, respect, and vulnerability.
Offline communities such as sports, theater, robotics clubs, or mentoring groups can also help boys find identity and belonging beyond the internet’s narrow ideals.
As the digital world increasingly defines masculinity, families have the power to redefine it by teaching boys that strength includes compassion and that self-worth isn’t determined by likes or algorithms.
Every child has the right to grow up in an environment that fosters mental, emotional, and moral well-being, free from harmful gender stereotypes and digital exploitation.
