How can parents discuss the dangers of normalising dating when it appears in a teen drama their child loves? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a teenager loves a show that normalises dating, a direct attack on the programme will likely be met with resistance. A more effective approach is to open a thoughtful dialogue that respects their intelligence while guiding their perspective. 

Start with Questions, Not Criticism 

Begin by asking gentle, open-ended questions about the show, such as, ‘What do you find interesting about the relationships in that drama?’ This creates a safe space for conversation and helps you understand their perspective before you share your own, preventing them from becoming defensive. 

Separate Entertainment from Real-Life Guidance 

Acknowledge that they enjoy the show for its entertainment value. You can say, ‘I know the story is exciting, and this is not about banning the show’. Then, gently create a distinction: ‘But it is important to remember that real-life relationships are very different. The way dating is shown on TV often leads to heartbreak and distracts us from what Allah wants for us’. This frames your concern around protection, not just restriction. 

Discuss the Unseen Consequences 

Teen dramas glorify the thrill of romance but rarely show the long-term negative consequences. Talk about how these casual relationships can cause emotional distress, damage one’s reputation, and create distance from one’s faith and family. Use age-appropriate, real-life examples to illustrate that the Islamic way is designed to prevent this pain. 

Frame Islamic Rules Around Honour and Self-Respect 

Empower your teen by connecting Islamic boundaries to their own self-worth. You can explain, ‘Allah has honoured your heart too much for it to be treated like a temporary hobby. That is why Islam protects love through the dignity of Nikah’. Teenagers are highly receptive to ideas of dignity and self-respect, and this makes the rules feel empowering, not oppressive. 

This respectful approach helps to develop your teen’s critical thinking, allowing them to enjoy stories while still being conscious of the values being promoted. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam provides clear guidance on protecting our hearts and minds by avoiding not just forbidden acts, but also the paths that lead to them. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 32: 

‘And do not even go near adulterous actions, indeed, (such actions) are the worst of immorality, and a malicious (and evil) pathway.’ 

The command here is not just “do not commit,” but “do not even approach.” This teaches us a proactive principle of protection. Consuming media that constantly normalises and glamorises haram relationships is a way of “approaching” that path with our hearts and minds, which is what Islamic guidance seeks to prevent. 

Choosing to turn away from harmful influences is an act of faith that Allah promises to reward. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, 4014, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever leaves something for the sake of Allah, Allah will compensate him with something better.‘ 

This beautiful promise empowers a teenager to make a choice for the sake of their faith. It teaches them that turning away from a beloved but spiritually harmful show is not a loss. Rather, it is an investment in their relationship with Allah, who will surely replace it with something far better, whether that is peace of mind, a stronger iman, or guidance to more wholesome entertainment.