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Research about involuntary celibates, or incels, has often relied on indirect texts such as internet forums and discussions as a source of data for qualitative analysis. Using direct qualitative data from interviews with incels (N = 14), this paper examines their beliefs about negative online behaviors such as shit-posting. From the data, we identified various themes, and participants stated that they may view this behavior as: 1.) one that is not specifically isolated to incels (or only a small fraction of the incel population); 2.) for attention; or 3.) a reflection of some truth or deeper emotion. Other explanations, however, suggested that shit-posting is: 4.) just a joke or not serious; 5.) annoying or a negative representation of all incels; or 6.) false flags by others outside of the community. Researchers in online behavior—and incel researchers in particular – should give special attention to the reasons why users may engage in reprehensible or vile speech and the rewards that such behaviors offer. Attention to the nuance and purpose of online behaviors can provide additional context for the interpretation and application of existing and future incel research, and it can inform policies and practices to make internet spaces less harmful.
Daly et al. (Mon,) studied this question.