Part 6/12:
The transcript emphasizes that men’s fear of rejection is often exaggerated due to the online environment. Stories of potential legal repercussions or social humiliation are often overinflated in their minds, leading to avoidance behaviors. The real risks—like simple rejection or awkward encounters—are often perceived as more damaging due to societal pressures and the prevalence of humiliating stories shared online.
Participants argue that the real danger lies not in talking to strangers but in the fear of embarrassment, which is intensified by social media exposure. Posts and viral videos can turn mundane rejections into public spectacles, making men apprehensive about even initiating small conversations for fear of social shame.