I didn't leave inceldom; inceldom left me: examining male ex-incel navigations of complex masculinities identity rebuilding following rejection of incel-culture.

Adams, Nicholas Norman; Smith, David S.

Abstract

This study explores experiences of ex-incels - men who have withdrawn from incel communities - through eleven qualitative interviews analysed using R.W. Connell's hegemonic masculinity (HM) framework. Findings reveal some ex-incels adopt flexible masculinities, while others struggle with prescriptive norms perpetuated by the anti-feminist "manosphere". Findings spotlight identity reconstructions, where men both reject and remain influenced by rigid archetypes, performing hybrid masculinities. This study deepens understanding of incel ideology, its impact on identity, and interplay between inceldom and masculinities via contributing to hybrid masculinities theorising. Insights presents applications for gender theory and inform further research on HM's influence within unique cultural contexts.

Citation

ADAMS, N.N. and SMITH, D.S. [2025]. I didn't leave inceldom; inceldom left me: examining male ex-incel navigations of complex masculinities identity rebuilding following rejection of incel-culture. Deviant behavior [online], Latest Articles. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2025.2453443

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 9, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Jan 24, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jan 27, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 10, 2025
• Journal: Deviant behavior
• Print ISSN: 0163-9625
• Electronic ISSN: 1521-0456
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2025.2453443
• Keywords: Incels; Involuntary celibates; Masculinity; Male psychology; Self identity
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2662381