Putting the 'Cult' in 'Subculture': Investigating Group Identity Development Among Incels

Abstract

In this study, I analyze the group identity development of incels. Incels are a group of men who gather in online spaces to vent frustrations about feminism and an inability to attract a romantic partner. The theoretical framework of this study includes theories of hegemonic and hybrid masculinities as well as the theories of style in subcultures, and theories of cults. I performed content analysis through hidden observation of the 15 most recent posts from 12 new users and 12 prolific users of the incels.is forum. The sample from incels.is consisted of 360 posts. I also analyzed the 5 top posts of all time and all related comments from the r/IncelExit Subreddit. The findings suggest that new users to the forum join with preexisting self-esteem issues and hateful views and seek a place to express themselves with minimal judgement. The social dynamics of the forum are consistent with literature on subcultures, as low-ranked users must adequately perform the incel identity to be accepted in the community. Social connections seem to be a major factor that keeps users on the forum longer and posting more. The findings suggest the incel community can be described as a subculture with cult-like qualities.