How can parents guide a child who is pressured to spend money on in-game purchases to keep up with friends? 

Parenting Perspective 

The pressure to buy in-game items is a powerful marketing tactic that preys on a child’s desire to fit in. Instead of simply refusing, use this as an opportunity to teach them financial wisdom and build their self-worth. 

Frame the Conversation Around Values 

Start by calmly explaining your family’s approach to money. You can say, ‘In our family, we spend money on things that have real value, not just to impress others’. This reframes the issue from a simple ‘no’ to a positive family principle of mindful spending. 

Explain the Marketing Trap 

Help your child see the manipulation behind the pressure. Explain that games are designed to make them feel left out if they do not buy the latest item. Teaching them to recognise this marketing strategy empowers them to see the situation with a critical eye, rather than as a personal failing. 

Teach Financial Responsibility Through Practice 

If you give your child pocket money, allow them the freedom to spend it on an in-game purchase after a cooling-off period. When they have to use their own, hard-earned money, they learn to weigh their decisions more carefully. This builds real-world financial skills and a sense of responsibility for their choices. 

Anchor Their Self-Worth in Character 

Consistently remind your child that their value as a person has nothing to do with the digital accessories they own. Praise their character, their skills, and their kindness. A child who is secure in their intrinsic worth is far less vulnerable to the peer pressure of materialism, both online and off. 

With these conversations, you are not just managing a gaming issue; you are building a child’s resilience against consumer culture and grounding them in what truly matters. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that worldly competition is a fleeting distraction and that true richness is a matter of the soul, not of possessions. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hadeed (57), Verse 20: 

‘ Note that indeed, the life of this world is only: a drama; and amusement; and ostentatious; and superficial bragging between yourselves; and unbridled desire for capitalism and offspring…’ 

This verse is a perfect description of the in-game culture of competing to have the best skins, weapons, and upgrades. It is a powerful reminder for a child that this type of rivalry is a temporary illusion of this world (dunya), and that true success lies elsewhere. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ defined what it means to be truly wealthy. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 1051, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘True richness is not having many possessions, but richness of the soul.‘ 

This beautiful hadith is the ultimate antidote to materialism. It teaches a child that inner contentment, self-respect, and a strong connection to Allah make up the “richness of the soul.” This is a treasure far more valuable and lasting than any digital item they could ever purchase in a game.