Many people feel lost or disconnected in a rapidly changing world, leading them to seek belonging or a sense of purpose in external validation, addiction, escapism and more extreme or fringe ideologies.
The challenges facing young men today highlight a complex interplay of personal, societal, and structural factors that shape their identity formation. In an era of shifting gender norms, evolving social expectations, and economic instability, many young men grapple with profound questions: Who am I? What is my place in the world? While these struggles are universal in young adulthood, the stakes seem increasingly high as traditional frameworks of identity and success become less clear. This confusion and uncertainty can make some young men particularly susceptible to extreme or fringe ideologies, which promise a sense of purpose, community, and direction.
A Vulnerable Time
Young adulthood is a period marked by exploration and uncertainty, it’s a vulnerable time for identity formation. During this stage, individuals work to establish values, relationships, and life goals, forming the foundation of their adult identities. However, the absence of clear guidance—from family, mentors, or society—can exacerbate feelings of disorientation. This lack of support, coupled with external pressures to "succeed," creates fertile ground for frustration and self-doubt.
The challenge is compounded by rapidly changing societal norms. Traditional markers of success, such as stable careers or home ownership, are increasingly out of reach due to economic instability. Similarly, evolving expectations around masculinity often leave young men unsure of their role in modern society. For some, the absence of a coherent roadmap for achieving success or self-definition leads to heightened vulnerability.
Radical ideologies thrive in environments of uncertainty and disillusionment. These belief systems often present themselves as the “anti-system” alternative, offering simple answers to complex problems. For young men who feel disconnected from mainstream societal structures, radical ideologies may appear to provide:
• Clear identity: A defined sense of self and role in the world.
• Purpose: A larger mission or cause to pursue.
• Belonging: A sense of community and mutual understanding.
This allure is particularly potent in the context of pervasive disillusionment with societal institutions. Many young men view politics, corporations, and even education systems as ineffective or untrustworthy. Radical groups exploit this disillusionment by framing themselves as the sole custodians of truth and agency.
On the Fringe
The internet amplifies the reach and appeal of radical ideologies. Social media platforms and online forums create echo chambers where fringe ideas can proliferate rapidly. Algorithms, designed to engage users, often push individuals toward increasingly extreme content as they seek out validation for their frustrations.
These online spaces frequently foster a sense of empowerment. They present themselves as welcoming communities that understand the struggles of their members. For a young man searching for meaning, stumbling upon such a community can feel like finding a lifeline. However, the initial allure of shared understanding and purpose can quickly morph into harmful dynamics, particularly when these groups are built on exclusion, hate, or extremism.
What factors are driving the vulnerability? There are several structural and cultural factors pushing individuals particularly young men toward radical ideologies:
1. Economic Instability:
Economic challenges, such as rising living costs, limited career opportunities, and mounting student debt, can create a pervasive sense of insecurity. The inability to envision a stable future often fosters resentment, which radical ideologies capitalize on by offering scapegoats for these systemic issues.
2. Evolving Gender Roles:
While the evolution of gender roles is a necessary and positive shift, it has left many men without a clear framework for understanding modern masculinity. Traditional markers of manhood, such as being a provider or protector, no longer hold the same societal significance. In the absence of an updated model for masculinity, many men struggle with feelings of emasculation and confusion.
3. The Need for Belonging:
Humans are fundamentally social beings, wired for community and connection. For young men who feel alienated from mainstream society, radical groups can fill the void by offering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Creating Positive Alternatives
To address the identity crisis of young men, it is critical to offer constructive and inclusive alternatives. These efforts should focus on:
1. Promoting Positive Masculinity:
Society must articulate and model healthy forms of masculinity that integrate emotional intelligence, empathy, and collaboration alongside traditional strengths like resilience and determination.
2. Building Inclusive Communities:
Creating supportive environments where young men can find purpose and connection is essential. Whether through mentorship programs, community groups, or shared activities, these spaces can provide a sense of belonging without resorting to harmful ideologies.
3. Addressing Economic Inequality:
Structural solutions, such as affordable housing, accessible education, and meaningful job opportunities, are crucial for reducing the frustration and hopelessness that drive individuals toward radical views.
4. Encouraging Media Literacy:
Equipping young men with the tools to critically evaluate online content can help them recognize manipulation tactics and resist the pull of extremist narratives.
5. Fostering Open Dialogue:
Acknowledging the struggles of young men without shaming or dismissing them is key. Open conversations about identity, purpose, and societal expectations can create a foundation for trust and growth.
Thankfully, there does seem to be a change in attitude and openness about, identity, neurodiversity, mental health and the various ‘faces’ of society. MTV Faces docu-series shares an interesting conversation about Unmasking ADHD with Jordan Stephens.
Navigating Identity
Many individuals (especially men) are not taught the emotional vocabulary to deal with feelings. As a result, this can often be expressed through behaviours, which may be socially or culturally accepted.
I recently had the pleasure of being a guest on, Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast with Chris McCurry and Emma Waddington. We explored the identity crises experienced by many men searching for purpose. Our discussions touched on disconnection in a rapidly changing world, leading some to seek to belong in more extreme or fringe ideologies, grappling with shifting gender roles, changing social expectations, and economic instability.
How can individuals and young men, in particular, navigate identity?
Check it out, wherever you listen to your podcasts 🎙️
Secret #43: Who Am I? Navigating Identity in Young Men with Nike OruhSoul Searching
The identity crisis facing a generation of young men is a multifaceted issue that demands empathy, understanding, and proactive solutions. While radical ideologies exploit feelings of disconnection and uncertainty, the person-centred solutions outlined above can offer young men a healthier path toward self-definition and purpose. By addressing the root causes of their struggles and providing inclusive, supportive alternatives, we can empower young men to thrive authentically in a rapidly changing world.
Before enlightenment: chop wood, carry water. After enlightenment: chop wood, carry water.
“Chop Wood” Zen quote is a reminder that life’s meaning often lies not in grandiose outcomes but in showing up fully for the work at hand, no matter how simple or unglamorous it may seem. It’s a sentiment that echoes through the remarkable, almost mythical life of a singer-songwriter named Rodriguez. A few years back, I watched ‘Searchin’ for Sugar Man.’ The film explores the journey of a forgotten man.
Flashback to Detroit in the early 1970s, where a shy, long-haired poet named Sixto Rodriguez was crafting music that captured the soul of working-class struggles with raw, beautiful, and unapologetically real melodies. Industry insiders believed they had struck gold. Rodriguez signed with A&M Records and released two albums, Cold Fact and Coming from Reality.
But fate had other plans. Despite critical praise, the albums flopped, and Rodriguez faded from the music scene as quickly as he had entered it. Disillusioned but undeterred, he returned to Detroit, picked up a demolition job, and got on with life — a real-world version of "chop wood, carry water."
And yet, half a world away, Rodriguez was unknowingly becoming a symbol of hope and resistance. Bootleg copies of his music were circulating in apartheid-era South Africa, where his lyrics spoke directly to the yearning for freedom and equality. People didn’t just like his music — they revered it. Rodriguez was, to them, a legend. Rumours of his untimely death only added to his mystique. Fans believed he had met a tragic, rock-star ending — setting himself on fire on stage or dying by suicide. The truth was more extraordinary than any rumour: Rodriguez was alive and well, living humbly in Detroit with no idea of his South African fame. Rodriguez was eventually found and flown to South Africa, where he played sold-out shows for fans who had waited decades to see their hero in the flesh.
Rodriguez didn’t set out to inspire a movement. He simply made music, gave it his all, and then let life unfold. For decades, he lived quietly, carrying water and chopping wood in Detroit, unaware that his work was giving hope to millions.
In the end, the search for purpose doesn’t always lead to fame or fortune. Sometimes, it’s enough to do what you love with all your heart and trust that, somewhere, your effort matters. Rodriguez’s life reminds us that purpose often finds us in unexpected ways — and that sometimes, chopping wood and carrying water is exactly what the world needs.
When I was growing up obsessed with the culture of Hip-Hop, I found myself searching and digging beneath the surface. Both metaphorically and literally, I started digging in the crates. That meant finding the samples, musicians, and producers behind my favourite records. One such group is the Average White Band. Hailing from Dundee, Scotland - Despite not fitting the stereotypical boxes, ‘AWB’ are widely regarded as one of the best soul and funk bands of any era.
Soul searching
Digging a little bit deeper every day
(Digging a little bit deeper every day)
Soul searching
Looking inside trying to find the way (Looking inside)
And it all adds up to what I'm trying to say.
Meditate on purpose, persistence, and the unknowable ripple effects of our actions.
On the quest for Purpose & Identity - Be yourself.
Authenticity is Key.