Investigating Body Image and Violence in the Incel Community with Brandon Sparks

RESOLVing Violence

In the latest episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we dive into the complex world of the incel community and its potential connection to body image issues with assistant professor Brandon Sparks. This episode uncovers thought-provoking insights and challenges regarding a group often misunderstood by society.
Sparks conducts his research by drawing from interviews with several incels. Through this he discovers that not all of these individuals still seek a romantic relationship. Many feel that their youth was wasted in pursuit of love, leading them to identify as incels due to their perceived failures. However, this diverse group includes those with different aspirations, such as becoming parents, finding career success, or pursuing personal hobbies.
To grasp the nature of the incel community, it is crucial to go beyond the narrow concept of seeking a romantic or sexual partner. For many incels, it goes beyond that; it's about longing for a sense of belonging and being cared for. It becomes a profound psychological distress when these individuals fail to form meaningful relationships despite their efforts.
This episode offers a nuanced perspective on the incel community and its potential connection to body image issues. By delving into the challenges faced by these individuals, the episode encourages us to reframe our understanding and approach to therapy.
Learn More About Our Guest
Brandon Sparks (he/him) is a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in Forensic Psychology at Kingston University. He has undertaken a number of studies on incels (involuntary celibates) using both survey- and interview-based approaches to better contextualize the issues faced by incels and how practitioners can better help them. His primary research area is in the domain of sexual violence, particularly technology-facilitated sexual violence and has been actively involved with the Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse since 2018.
To connect with Brandon Sparks, contact him at [e-mail].

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/