"The influencers on TikTok are just melts."

Alongside my work as Relationship Development Lead for the DAY Programme, I work with young people who need safeguarding.

I recently used the DAY programme with a 17-year-old boy in one-on-one sessions.

He had been introduced to the manosphere via a school assembly. This assembly was intended to highlight harmful content but instead exposed him to a previously unknown digital space, where his curiosity led him to misogynistic websites, blogs and influencers.

By creating a safe, non-judgemental space and taking time to build up a relationship and rapport:

• We focused on his strengths.

• We looked at identity.

• We focused on his positive role models.

• We explored feelings and emotions and ideas for emotional regulation.

• We explored stereotypes, societal expectations and pressures on masculinity. We examined how society and multimedia can influence these roles.

• We created a safe space for discussion and healthy debate.

• We explored how multimedia plays a role in shaping attitudes towards women and girls.

• We explored accountability

• We focused on healthy relationships and consent.

Through our work, this young person changed his perspective and was able to tell me that:

• “I am determined to be a positive role model for my younger brother."

• “I have so much more respect for women and girls; history and today’s society just does not give them a break."

• “I have already safely and non-judgementally called out mates on their so-called jokes and banter."

• “The influencers on TikTok etc. are just melts."

• “I keep hearing negative lyrics in songs and objectification towards girls/women in adverts; it is just everywhere."

• “I am going to try my hardest to be the very best I can be. I am not perfect, as I may slip up, but I will definitely try."

• “Thank you for the support; it has opened my eyes and my mind."

With the right tools, all those working with young people can have meaningful conversations that lead to new perspectives. If you would like further information on DAY Programme please do not hesitate to contact Tina at tina.pearmine@dayprogramme.org