The National Union of Students (NUS) has called for a summit to address the issues that ‘lad culture’ is having on female university students around the UK.
A recent report commissioned by the NUS entitled ‘That’s what she said: Women student experiences of lad culture in higher education” brings together research conducted by the University of Sussex.
The research contains data collected by focus groups, as well as interviews with 40 women students from England and Scotland.
The study defines the phenomenon of ‘lad culture’ as a group mentality residing heavily in activities such as sport and heavy alcohol consumption, as well as ‘banter’, which was often sexist, misogynist and homophobic.
Nights out were highlighted as specific times when males exhibited signs of ‘lad culture’. Club promoters were also thought to engage in lad behaviour as a way to attract students.
Social engagements such as ‘pimp ‘n’ ho’ and ‘slag ‘n’ drag’ parties, as well as student websites like Uni Lad and The Lad Bible have also been criticised as sources that help normalise the objectification of women and sexual harassment.
But not all students take the acts so seriously. Many see it as just ‘boys being boys’ and choose to brush it off; some even find The Lad Bible and its competitors to be humourous.
Amy Devine, 19, a student from the University of Westminster said: “It can be frustrating sometimes, but it’s just immaturities.”
Additionally, Hannah Weaks, 21 said: “I’ve never had a problem with it personally, but I’ve heard boys being a bit disrespectful. They’re not people I choose to hang out with, but it can be annoying.”
The trend in lad behavior is also connected to a ‘crisis in masculinity’, a term coined by media in the 1990s to describe males feeling under attack due to high-achieving women and a changing gender landscape.
In a letter to Women’s Minister, Jo Swinson, NUS Women’s Officer, Kelley Temple said:
“The study found a worrying prevalence of ‘lad culture’ and the report will make uncomfortable reading for many of us – NUS and students’ unions included – when it comes to our own responsibilities. ‘Lad culture’ is a problem that needs to be urgently addressed.”
No further information has been released on if and when a summit will take place.
By Gavin Barnes
