In recent years, the term ‚mogging‘ has emerged as a worrying trend on social media. In the so-called „incel“ culture, „mogging“ refers to aggressive behavior that primarily targets people with insecurities and low self-esteem. Through platforms such as TikTok, Twitter and Facebook, the number of people engaging in mogging or humiliating others due to genetic, injury-related or abnormal body size is steadily increasing. As a result, many sufferers, also known as ‚moggees‘, struggle to overcome the fear, shame and embarrassment associated with their often uncontrollable trait.
Stigma around body size is deeply rooted in our society. Many people, especially „moggers“, are often unaware of how privileged they are to be above average. But what exactly does „mogging“ actually mean and where does this new term come from? The following article is intended to provide the reader with all the background information on the subject of „mogging“ and, not least, to take a critical look at it.
Definition of the term „mogging“
The term „mogging“ is derived from the term „AMOG“. „AMOG“ means „Alpha male other guy“ or „Alpha male of the group“. „AMOG“ means: to dominate others or to assert oneself. In the verb „mogging“, the „a“ is omitted and the „g“ is doubled. Together with the suffix „-ing“, this creates the verb „mogging“. „Mogging“ means „to dominate“ and „to make small“.
This means that people are deliberately denigrated or made fun of because of their height. The aim of this is to indirectly exert dominance over these people. „Moggers“ tend to assume that height is a genetic gift and show little empathy for people of average or smaller height. In many cases, they even resort to toxic behavior, such as „mogging“. Children and adolescents are not the only ones affected. Many adults live with fears and insecurities about their body size.
„Mogging“ is a social phenomenon that has become increasingly common in recent years. However, it goes far beyond the actual discrediting of body size (and only uses it as an excuse). „Mogging“ can therefore be classified as misanthropic and narcissistic.
Word origin and origin of „mogging“
The chronological origin of the term „mogging“ can be traced back to recent years. The term has appeared in online forums and especially on platforms such as TikTok, Twitter and Facebook, where it originated as part of incel culture. The exact dating of the term cannot be precisely determined.
The term „mogging“ was first used in online forums such as Reddit. It then spread to social media platforms, where it became a thematic component of short videos. The use of the term „mogging“ in video and image descriptions and in the form of hashtags then made it increasingly popular.
How does mogging work?
„Mogging“ refers to a form of aggressive behavior in which a person attempts to assume a dominant position by humiliating or harassing others based on characteristics that are considered undesirable, primarily small body size. These hostile acts can range from subtle verbal attacks to overt physical confrontations. Often the tactics used in „mogging“ are not obvious and can be subtle.
The goal is to make the target appear less important through belittling comments, disrespectful behavior or even physical intimidation. This form of pressure can cause considerable psychological stress and have a negative impact on the self-esteem of those affected. The most common tactics include
- Insults and derogatory comments regarding body size
- Staring at or demonstratively ignoring the person concerned
- Subtle derogatory gestures or facial expressions
- Spreading rumors or derogatory comments on social media
- deliberately isolating the person concerned in social situations
- Participating in derogatory jokes or mockery
- Recording videos or photos intended to humiliate the person
- Physical intimidation through physical proximity or threats
- Manipulating group dynamics to exclude the target person
- Exploiting the target’s insecurities or personal weaknesses
Where is „mogging“ used everywhere?
„Mogging“ is used in various areas, although three main contexts can be identified:
- social networks
- professional environment
- personal relationships
In the following subsections, the above-mentioned areas of application of „mogging“ will be discussed in more detail.
Social networks
In the vastness of social networks such as TikTok, Twitter and Facebook, mogging is spreading at an alarming rate. By publicly exposing and bullying people of small stature, the negative practice is being reinforced. Disparaging comments and degrading content find a platform to humiliate others.
Professional environment
„Mogging“ can also occur in the workplace, where people are the target of derogatory comments or social exclusion due to their body size. This form of discrimination can put a strain on the professional environment and affect those affected psychologically, which in turn has a negative impact on work performance.
Personal relationships
In personal relationships, whether with friends or in other social settings, mogging manifests itself through subtle put-downs and derogatory comments. Those affected can feel socially isolated, which can lead to psychological stress and low self-esteem.
Social classification of „mogging“
The social categorization of „mogging“ reflects a worrying trend. The practice of humiliating people because of their body size is contrary to basic principles of respect and empathy. „Mogging often thrives in environments where superficiality and social hierarchies are emphasized. It contributes to the reinforcement of beauty standards and prejudices, resulting in psychological distress for those affected. Social categorization varies, with some viewing it as a serious problem that requires attention and countermeasures, while others see it as a mere provocation.
Reviews on the subject of „mogging“
Critiques of „mogging“ emphasize the negative effects on the mental health and self-esteem of those affected. Opponents argue that this form of harassment undermines social norms and contributes to an intolerant atmosphere. Some see „mogging“ as a product of superficial social media that increases the pressure to conform to unrealistic ideals of beauty. Criticism also focuses on the fact that „mogging“ promotes a toxic culture in which empathy and respect are neglected. The discussion around mogging therefore also reflects broader issues of social responsibility and dealing with diversity.
Conclusion on the topic of „mogging“ and the use of similar terms
In summary, „mogging“ can be seen as a worrying trend in which people are insulted, abused and discriminated against because of their small size. However, this often only serves as a pretext and is due to narcissistic personality traits or pure malice or envy.
In addition to „mogging“, there are also the terms „body shaming“ and „sizeism“. „Body shaming“ refers to the practice in which people are criticized, bullied or discriminated against because of their body or external appearance. Sizeism, on the other hand, refers to the discrimination of people based on their body size.