Rethinking Masculinity: A Quiet Space for Change

Date: Saturday 24 May 2025

A recent study by Movember has unveiled the complex and often contradictory impact of masculinity influencers on young men aged 16-25. While some influencers inspire optimism and motivation, the research highlights significant risks tied to their content. Alarmingly, over a third of young men who engage with these influencers act on their advice, with some resorting to extreme measures such as testosterone injections, steroids, or diet pills. These actions raise urgent concerns about the physical and mental health consequences of chasing an idealised version of masculinity.

The Third Space: A Quiet Place to Rethink Masculinity

In a world filled with noise and expectations, there’s a growing need for a space where men can pause, reflect, and reconnect with their authentic selves. The Third Space from Brothers in Arms offers just that—a quiet refuge where men can step away from societal pressures and explore what masculinity means to them, free from judgment or performance.

The Double-Edged Sword of Masculinity Online

The digital landscape is a powerful force shaping young men’s perceptions of masculinity. While some influencers provide motivation and purpose, others perpetuate harmful ideals, pushing men toward unattainable standards or risky behaviours. Movember’s findings reveal that while many young men feel inspired by this content, it often comes at a cost—reinforcing self-reliance and emotional suppression as norms, and discouraging help-seeking behaviours.

Breaking Free from Expectations

Society’s “shoulds” for men—be strong, be a provider, fix your own problems—can feel suffocating. The Third Space invites men to question these expectations and redefine strength and ambition on their own terms. Here, strength can mean asking for help, and ambition can include prioritising mental health.

Strength isn’t about fixing—it’s about noticing what’s already within. Take your time. This space will hold steady.

Read more about the Third Space here: https://www.brothersinarmsscotland.co.uk/information/mens-wellbeing-articles/2025/may/15/navigating-the-influence-of-masculinity-content-time-for-a-rethink/