What can parents do if a child starts changing their dress or speech just to imitate TikTok influencers? 

Parenting Perspective 

It can be worrying for parents to see their child begin to change their style of dress or speech to copy TikTok influencers, as it feels like their personality is being shaped by fleeting online trends. This behaviour often stems from a normal developmental desire to fit in, feel admired, or simply experiment with their identity. The most effective approach for parents is one of an understanding that gently redirects the child towards a more authentic form of self-expression that is rooted in their family and faith. 

Understand the Need Behind the Imitation 

Gently open a conversation by asking: ‘What is it that you admire about this particular influencer?’ A child might be drawn to their confidence, their sense of humour, or their popularity. Recognising this appeal allows you to address the deeper need behind the imitation, whether it is for a sense of belonging, admiration, or a new way to express themselves. 

Affirm Their Unique Individuality 

Take every opportunity to remind your child that their own unique personality is valuable. You could say: ‘You do not need to copy someone else to be a wonderful and respected person. The best thing about you is that you are yourself.’ This helps to build their confidence to stand out on their own terms, rather than feeling the need to blend in by imitating others. Your child needs to hear that their individuality is valuable. 

Set Boundaries With Respect 

If your child’s imitation crosses over into inappropriate styles of dress or the use of disrespectful language, it is important to set clear but calm limits. You can explain: ‘Some of those styles and words do not fit with our family’s values. You can be creative and find your own style in a way that still reflects who we are as a family.’ 

Provide Positive Role Models 

Actively encourage your child to follow Islamic or other inspiring public figures who display confidence without compromising on their values. Show them examples of people who are admired not for their clothes or their slang, but for their sincerity, their achievements, and their good character. 

By blending empathy with firm and loving guidance, parents can help their children to understand that copying influencers is not a prerequisite for confidence, and that authenticity is what earns the deepest and most lasting respect. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reminds us that a believer’s identity should be firmly rooted in their faith and a sense of God-given dignity, not in the blind imitation of others. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqaan (25), Verses 72: 

‘ And those people who choose not to verify falsehood; and whenever they pass (people engaged in) obscenities; they pass by them (as if) they respected them.‘ 

This verse teaches a key characteristic of a believer: they rise above harmful trends and foolish speech, choosing instead to carry themselves with a sense of dignity. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, 5534, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The example of a good companion and a bad companion is like that of the seller of musk and the blacksmith’ 

This powerful analogy reminds us that the people we admire and imitate, whether online or in person, will inevitably shape our own character, either for the better or for the worse. 

By showing children that Islam values authenticity, modesty, and dignity, parents can help them to see that blindly imitating online influencers is not a form of strength. Over time, they can learn that their best and truest self is found not in copying others, but in being true to their own values and in seeking the approval of Allah Almighty above all else.