What are early warning signs that harmful online content is shaping a child’s beliefs or self-image? 

Parenting Perspective 

The influence of online content can be subtle, gradually shaping a child’s worldview without them even realising it. Paying attention to small changes in their behaviour and beliefs is key to identifying and addressing any negative impact. 

Changes in Language and Opinions 

Listen for changes in how they speak. If your child begins to repeat harmful ideas, stereotypes, or disrespectful language that they have clearly picked up online, it can be a sign that this content is influencing their thinking. 

Shift in Values or Priorities 

Notice if they start to admire behaviours or lifestyles that conflict with your family’s core values. This might include glorifying materialism, arrogance, or dishonesty. It can signal a shift in what they consider important. 

Lowered Self-Worth 

Be aware of any signs of lowered self-worth. If a child constantly compares themselves negatively to the people they see online, feeling unattractive or unsuccessful, it may be that the idealised online world is distorting their self-image. 

Resistance to Positive Guidance 

A sudden defensiveness or a new reluctance to listen to family advice can be a sign that external online influences are becoming more powerful than parental guidance. This is an important moment to reconnect. 

Noticing these signs early allows for gentle, corrective conversations before harmful ideas take deep root. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that our hearts and minds are deeply affected by what we consume. The company we keep, whether physical or digital, will inevitably shape our character. 

Being Shaped by What We Consume 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashr (59), Verse 19: 

‘And be not like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves…’ 

This reminds us that when we are disconnected from divine guidance, we can lose our own sense of self, making us more vulnerable to harmful external influences. 

Choosing Influences Wisely 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5779, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The example of a good companion and a bad companion is that of the bearer of musk and the one who pumps the bellows’ 

This teaches us that the influences we keep, including the content we consume online, will either uplift and beautify our character or harm and corrupt it.