Psychosocial Characteristics of Involuntary Celibates (Incels): A Review of Empirical Research and Assessment of the Potential Implications of Research on Adult Virginity and Late Sexual Onset

Incels are defined as involuntary celibates who part of an online community characterized by anti-women ideology. We review research on the psychosocial characteristics people identifying and compare their with general adult virginity late sexual onset. Studies were identified through database search (Scopus, PubMed, PsycInfo Google Scholar). Findings from 59 empirical studies included. demographically, ethnically, religiously diverse. Analyses Incel forum discussions survey responses report psychological issues relating to negative body image, shyness, anxiety, social skill deficits, autism, bullying, romantic inexperience, loneliness, depression, suicide. Research onset similar indicate feelings being sexually “off time” relative peers, but without a high prevalence Future should focus why some inexperienced adults participate in forums identify Incels, if mental health appeared before or after self-identifying Incel.