Man, Interrupted: Why Young Men Are Struggling ... Apr 2026

: Increased feelings of inadequacy and relational isolation, often exacerbated by social media.

: Excessive use of video games and online porn can lead to a generation of men who are shy, socially awkward, and risk-averse. This "enchantment" with technology provides immediate gratification, making real-life challenges like school and work seem less appealing.

: Rising rates of obesity and over-reliance on medications or illegal drugs. Man, Interrupted: Why Young Men are Struggling ...

In their book Man, Interrupted: Why Young Men are Struggling & What We Can Do About It , social psychologist and co-author Nikita Coulombe argue that young men are facing a modern "meltdown of manhood" characterized by academic, social, and sexual failure. They describe a generation of young men who are becoming increasingly disconnected from real-world responsibilities and relationships, often retreating into digital environments. The Core Challenges

: Significant increases in ADHD diagnoses and a suicide rate for young men that can be up to six times that of young women. Proposed Solutions : Increased feelings of inadequacy and relational isolation,

: Traditional pathways to success and self-esteem—such as being a primary provider—have been weakened by automation, globalization, and shifting gender roles.

: Young men are increasingly flaming out academically and are significantly less likely than women to meet basic proficiencies in reading, math, and science. : Rising rates of obesity and over-reliance on

The authors identify several key factors contributing to this struggle, which they often refer to as a new form of "arousal addiction":