Experts warn of rising permissiveness towards violence against women among younger men in Finland

Experts suggest that a growing sense of alienation and the rise of conservative values contribute to a more lenient attitude among younger men towards violence against women. A recent survey examining men’s views on this issue revealed that a respondent’s age was the most significant determinant of their attitudes. Men under 35 showed the most permissive views, with one in four believing that women can provoke violence against them. This age group also expressed a higher incidence of misogynistic beliefs in their open responses.

Conducted as an online survey last summer, the study involved 1,058 men aged 18 to 79 residing in Finland. The concept of violence was not explicitly defined in the questions, allowing respondents to refer to various forms, including emotional, physical, or economic abuse.

Silla Kakkola from Nytkis expressed concern about the need for attitude changes, particularly among younger generations. She noted that the rise of conservative values and social media’s visibility of violence against minorities and women play important roles. The pandemic has exacerbated social isolation, reducing community interactions that help individuals recognize and evaluate their behaviors.

Matti Kupila from Miessakit emphasized that while the situation in Finland isn’t the worst, it is vital to acknowledge emerging problems. He believes loneliness among young men, coupled with negative role models glorified on social media, can promote harmful behaviors. He also indicated that educational inequalities may lead to feelings of inadequacy in emotional and romantic situations, making some men more susceptible to idolizing violence.

Kakkola stresses the importance of ensuring safe adult figures are present in education and youth work, while Kupila advocates for strengthening community ties and opportunities for young men to connect positively.