Only 11% of women in the UK hold a positive view of men. What does this mean? And can the younger generation set a better tone?
Sometimes it takes a survey to highlight the severity of an issue, before people are aware it’s a problem. In this case, 2,000 women between the ages of 18 and 30 have taken part in a new survey for Merlin Strategy, in conjunction with The New Statesman. The report concludes that over 75% of women in England are unsatisfied with the behaviours of men.
What are the results and what do they mean?
Merlin Strategy conducted a range of questions for women to answer about how they feel their male counterparts behave, and the differences they feel in treatment by society. Unrequited love report filed by Merlin Strategy for The New Statesman.
Some results concluded that women felt the economy mostly works against women. However, almost 50% of men believe it works well for them. In relation to the gender pay gap issue, it makes sense that more men feel positive about their work setup. Since the Office for National Statistics reported in 2025 that 27.4% men are more likely to be in high-pay jobs than women (19.0%). The new economic split report filed by Merlin Strategy for The New Statesman.
The new economic split report filed by Merlin Strategy for The New Statesman.
What impression do these results leave on young people?
These statistics spread a concerning message to young people. Firstly, it suggests that there is a large imbalance in trust and accountability. Additionally, it raises concerns for young boys that there are no practical male role models to look up to for inspiration.
In our previous article, ‘5 Things Young Boys Can Learn from Louis Theroux’s Latest Documentary,’ we discussed the complex parameters of the manosphere. How damaging it is, and the importance of male role models.
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How are men responding to this issue?
Following the report, Metro conducted a short investigation, inviting nine men to share their opinions on the New Statesman’s poll. Jay, 46 and father of two, shared:
“With the dominance of male leaders across the world and men shouting and asserting authority, it’s not surprising to me that women view men the way they do. We see countless articles about men being charged for sexual assault and other offences against women and children, and it’s raised the phrase “not all men but always men”, which I have come to agree with. I personally feel like men have been left to their own devices for too long, without any sense of accountability. As a man, I can only be the best role model possible for my daughters and hope it teaches other men how to behave. If women don’t like me, I don’t blame them at all and look forward to the day we gain some trust back as a species.”
Luca, 31, also told Metro:
“I can understand the perspective. Given the history of misogyny and [a] longstanding patriarchal society across a majority of countries throughout the world, it’s not difficult to acknowledge their doubts and frustrations with men. However, I do hope that they still consider that there are still good men out there willing and hoping to change the narrative.”
What’s the general understanding?
You would think a report like this would have thousands of men angry, and I’m sure there are still a fair few out there foaming at the mouth. However, from just the few responses reported to the Metro, it seems there’s a general understanding that men need to do better. These results come at the hands of countless reports of misogyny, sexual assault, and harassment. Men alike can recognise the issue, which in a way, is reassuring that they aren’t comeplety blidndsighted by the statistics.
What can young men do to change this situation?
As the results are documented by women of a wide range, it shows that the problem extends beyond older men. The younger generation is just as accountable, but can still become better role models for the next generation.
From looking at the survey, many solutions can be done to readdress the way women feel about men today. Such as being active listeners, not being abusive, being emotionally intelligent and supportive. Additionally, dropping any misogynistic traits they likely inherited from their school days.
While these stats are set in stone, there is always a chance for those numbers to change. The younger generation can benefit from setting new and better standards.
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Laviea Thomas is a journalist at Inside Success who writes about film, music and politics.
Outside of that, she is an experienced freelance journalist with bylines in NME, The Quietus, Metal Hammer and more.
Over the years, Laviea has been an active panellist discussing fundamental conversations in the music industry, such as diversity and inclusion, and the importance of grassroots venues. She has been a panel guest for Kerrang! Focus Wales Festival, Future Yard and more.
