Some incels offer an ideological rationale, reinforced by peer pressure, for not working or studying

The critically acclaimed Netflix drama “Adolescence” has put a spotlight on the culture and ideas of incels (involuntary celibates), an online subculture of people (mostly male and heterosexual), who define themselves as unable to find a romantic or sexual partner, largely due to their perceived unattractiveness.

By analyzing exchanges on online incel forums, McGill University researchers have gained insights into the negative attitudes toward labor force participation held by many young men who identify as incels. The findings are published in the journal Gender, Work & Organization.

The researchers suggest that while some incels struggle with finding and retaining work because of various mental health challenges, for many members of the incel forum the choice not to work, study or train for a job is based on deeply held beliefs, and that these beliefs are often reinforced by other online forum participants.

This suggests there is a need for education and employment support programs that address not only the practical barriers to employment and study, but also the deep sense of alienation and social rejection felt by many in this group, the researchers said.

Unemployment as a commitment to incel identity

Recent surveys have shown that a disproportionately high percentage (up to 30%) of incels are not in employment, education or training (NEET). This prompted researchers to analyze more than 1,200 online comments on employment on 171 discussion threads on a popular incel forum during two weeks in fall 2022.

“They use employment status to assess the degree of commitment of their peers to incel identity and often encourage other incels to embrace a life of unemployment and isolation. Many also share the belief that the absence of a female romantic partner makes working pointless,” said Eran Shor, a McGill sociologist and co-author of the study.

High levels of internal policing help maintain inceldom

Members of the community participating in the discussions frequently encouraged others to retain their NEET status, something they praised as a confirming sign of “true” inceldom (a “truecel”). Those who talked about trying to improve their situation by working or studying were regularly labeled “fakecels.”

Only about one-quarter of forum members suggested that they or others should try to improve their situation by studying or finding work.

“This peer pressure makes unemployment a badge of honor rather than a problem to be solved. These online spaces can reinforce harmful ideas and discourage members from seeking help or changing their situation. So, understanding how these beliefs form is the key to finding ways to support and engage with these marginalized young men,” said Shor.

Need for a multi-pronged approach to reintegrating incels into society

The researchers suggest that encouraging incels to consider changing will require a multi-layered approach. They said there is a need for education, job training and placement programs. Interventions that focus on mental health and online community engagement will also be important, they said.

Shor added, “Long-term change will require challenging harmful narratives about masculinity, relationships, and success. Instead of punishing incels or banning their communities outright, helping them reintegrate into society will be more effective.”