What can parents do when popular apps or games encourage revealing or attention-seeking behaviour? 

Parenting Perspective 

Many popular apps and games have features designed to encourage attention-seeking behaviour. The key is to address the underlying values and build your child’s critical thinking skills, rather than just banning the app. 

Address the Influence, Not Just the App 

Instead of only focusing on the app itself, talk with your child about why certain features, such as revealing clothing for avatars or challenges that promote showing off, go against your family’s values. This builds their critical thinking. 

Guide Them Towards Healthier Choices 

Actively look for and suggest alternative games or platforms that are just as engaging but do not promote immodest behaviour. Involving your child in finding these options makes the process feel collaborative, not restrictive. 

Teach Digital Self-Discipline 

Empower your child by teaching them practical skills. Show them how to adjust privacy settings, choose a more modest avatar, and make a conscious choice to skip harmful trends. This teaches them that they can enjoy online spaces while maintaining their dignity. 

Stay Involved Without Being Intrusive 

Try to explore some of their favourite apps with them from time to time. When children see you taking a positive and curious interest, rather than only criticising, they are far more likely to open up about what they encounter online. 

This approach helps them build an internal compass to navigate the digital world wisely. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam provides clear guidance on protecting our honour and modesty (haya). These principles are timeless and serve as a vital shield against harmful influences in the digital age. 

Guarding One’s Honour 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah An Nur (24), Verse 30: 

‘Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts; that is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is aware of what they do…’ 

This reminds us that modesty and self-control are essential for protecting our purity and are actions that are seen and valued by Allah. 

True Strength in Resisting Harm 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6474, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever can guarantee (the chastity of) what is between his two jaw-bones and what is between his two legs (i.e. his tongue and his private parts), I guarantee Paradise for him.’ 

This highlights that guarding our speech and our modesty, including in our online behaviour, is an act of great discipline that leads to an immense and lasting reward. 

By applying these principles to their online lives, children learn that true self-respect comes from protecting their dignity, not from seeking fleeting attention in ways that compromise their values.