Misogyny among school boys a growing concern

Misogyny is a growing concern in UK schools, according to a major new study by YouGov. Among more than 1,000 teachers surveyed, over three-quarters (78%) believe misogyny is a serious problem in schools nationwide, with most (54%) saying the issue has worsened in recent years.

The findings reveal a stark divide between primary and secondary education. While half of all teachers see misogyny as at least a minor issue in their own schools, the figure rises to two-thirds (67%) among secondary school staff. Nearly one in six secondary teachers describe it as a “very big” problem.

A quarter of teachers (24%) report hearing misogynistic comments directed at female staff at least once a week. That figure jumps to 39% in secondary schools. Similar numbers say they regularly witness boys making misogynistic remarks towards female students.

Many teachers blame online influencers, such as Andrew Tate, for spreading harmful ideas. While parents also tend to point the finger at social media, teachers are more likely to view parents themselves as contributing to the problem.

Teachers say misogynistic behaviour often manifests through sexist language, disrespect towards female teachers and outdated attitudes about what girls can and cannot do - particularly in sports. Some also report more serious behaviour, including threats and overt claims of male superiority.

In response, there is strong support among teachers for stricter controls on young people's digital lives: 88% favour banning social media use for under-16s, and 92% back a ban on smartphones in schools.