How do we help children understand that repeated exposure to harmful media can normalise wrong behaviour? 

Parenting Perspective 

The gradual normalisation of negative behaviour is one of the most subtle risks of unmonitored media consumption. Helping children to recognise this process is a key part of building their media literacy and moral resilience. 

Explain the Concept of ‘Getting Used to It’ 

Explain in simple terms that our brains can get used to things. You could say, ‘If you hear a loud noise over and over again, eventually you stop noticing it. In the same way, if we see characters being unkind all the time in a show, it can start to feel normal, even though it is not.’ 

Give Clear, Real-Life Examples 

Connect the idea to their own media choices. You could discuss how a game where characters are constantly rude might make it seem okay to talk that way in real life. Use specific but gentle examples from what they watch or play. 

Encourage Critical Thinking 

Give them a simple question to use as a filter. Teach them to pause and ask themselves, ‘Would this be an okay way to behave at school or at home?’ This helps them to actively separate entertainment from real-world ethics. 

Balance with Positive Media 

Actively seek out and expose them to media that reinforces positive values like kindness, honesty, and cooperation. Positive content acts as a powerful counterbalance to harmful messages and helps to keep their moral compass clear and strong. 

These conversations help your child become a conscious consumer of media, not just a passive one. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to be highly selective about the influences we allow into our lives, as what we repeatedly see and hear can shape our character and values. 

Guarding the Heart from Negative Influence 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzab (33), Verse 21: 

‘There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day…’ 

This reminds us that we should choose our role models and influences carefully, looking to those who guide us towards goodness, not those who might lead us to accept wrong behaviour. 

Imitating What is Good 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4031, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever imitates a people is of them.’ 

This teaches us that repeatedly following and copying certain examples, whether good or bad, can begin to influence our own identity and character. Therefore, we must choose our influences wisely.