Influencers linked to the online “manosphere” are convincing healthy young men that normal changes in energy, mood or libido signal low testosterone, according to a study in Social Science and Medicine. Researchers analysed high-reach posts on TikTok and Instagram, finding testosterone framed as essential to being a “real man” despite routine testing being medically unwarranted for most young men.
The authors say this “medicalises masculinity”, creating demand for tests and treatments with limited evidence of benefit. Medical experts note guidelines recommend testing only when clear symptoms or specific clinical reasons exist, warning that unnecessary treatment can carry risks such as infertility and cardiovascular issues.
