60% of Gen Z Men Feel Overburdened by Equality Demands Amidst 'Masculinity Crisis' Debate

A recent social media post by "Harry Bergeron" has ignited discussion on the perceived "masculinity crisis" among young men, asserting a need for "worthy role models" to address what the author described as "super gross and weird" behavior. The tweet, which quickly gained traction, suggests that young men are not being engaged with until they "conform to our lunch table’s preferred social etiquette." This provocative statement arrives amidst broader societal conversations regarding male identity and development.

The tweet's sentiment echoes ongoing debates about the state of young men, a topic frequently discussed in media and academic circles. A 2025 survey by Ipsos UK and the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London revealed a significant divide, with 60% of Gen Z men believing they are expected to do too much to support equality. Concurrently, 57% felt society has gone too far in promoting women's equality, leading to discrimination against men.

Experts and recent reports highlight various challenges facing young men. Data indicates men live over five years fewer than women on average, are three times more likely to die from drug overdoses, and four times more at risk of suicide. Educational gaps are also widening, with only 37% of men aged 25-34 holding bachelor’s degrees by 2024, compared to 47% of women in the same age group. These statistics contribute to the narrative of a male well-being crisis.

Online platforms, particularly the "manosphere," play a significant role in shaping young men's perceptions, often promoting specific views on masculinity and gender roles. A Common Sense Media report from July 2025 found that 73% of boys regularly encounter masculinity-related content online, with a quarter exposed to it frequently. This content, often focusing on wealth, muscle, or aggression, is associated with increased feelings of loneliness and lower self-esteem, making boys less likely to share their feelings.

Despite these concerns, the overall picture remains complex. Men continue to earn approximately 20% more than women globally and hold 90% of the most powerful positions. They also enjoy more leisure time. Professor Heejung Chung, director of King’s Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, suggests that framing this moment as solely a crisis of masculinity "misses the point entirely," arguing it is more accurately a "crisis of opportunity" for younger generations. The ongoing dialogue underscores the urgent need for constructive alternatives and positive role models to guide young men through evolving societal expectations.