What does it mean when a child quotes gaming characters more than real-life friends or family? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child starts quoting game characters frequently, it is often a sign of a shift in their primary sources of influence and admiration. While not always a cause for alarm, it is an important observation for a parent to make. 

Recognising a Shift in Influence 

Consistently referencing gaming characters suggests that the virtual world is becoming more powerful in shaping their identity, humour, and worldview than their real-life relationships. It indicates that these characters have become highly influential role models in their imaginative world. 

Observing for Signs of Disconnection 

The key is to check whether this is accompanied by a withdrawal from reality. If your child struggles to express themselves without mimicking game phrases, prefers being alone with devices, or seems less interested in talking to family and friends, it may be a warning sign of excessive immersion and emotional disconnection. 

Gently Reaffirming Real-World Connections 

Increase the time you spend in real, unplugged interactions. Introduce your child to inspiring real-world role models, whether they are family members, community figures, or historical personalities. Highlighting the admirable qualities of people around them helps to show that real life is more compelling than fiction. 

Bridging Their Interests to Reality 

Use their interest as a bridge. Ask them what qualities they admire in their favourite characters, such as bravery, intelligence, or humour. You can then connect these very same traits to real-life examples, from the stories of the Prophets and their companions to the actions of people in your own family. This respects their interest while gently re-anchoring their admiration in reality. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam guides us to choose role models who elevate us in our character and faith, and to be mindful of who we take as our companions. 

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

‘ Indeed, there is for you (O mankind) in (the personality of) the Messenger of Allah (Almighty) (Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), an outstanding example of incredible benevolence; it is for those people that have hope in Allah (Almighty) and the Day of Judgment, and (desire) to remember Allah (Almighty) excessively.’ 

This verse establishes the ultimate standard for a role model. It reminds parents to gently guide their children’s admiration towards those who, like the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, exemplify qualities that are pleasing to Allah, rather than characters who offer only temporary entertainment. 

Our companions, even fictional ones, have a deep impact on our behaviour. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 2378, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A person follows the way of his close friend, so each of you should look at whom he befriends.‘ 

This profound teaching applies to the characters and personalities our children spend their time with on screens. These virtual “friends” can shape their language, habits, and character. It is a reminder to parents of the importance of guiding their children towards companions, both real and virtual, who will help them grow in goodness.