What if they copy screen idols who normalise bad manners? 

Parenting Perspective 

When children admire screen idols from films, shows, or social media, they often imitate not just their style but also their attitudes. The difficulty arises when these idols normalise bad manners such as arrogance, rudeness, or disrespect and children begin to copy them. As a parent, it can feel impossible to compete with the glamour of celebrity influence, but your steady guidance is what can redirect your child’s admiration towards values of true substance. 

Why Screen Idols Influence Children 

Understanding the appeal of these figures is the first step to countering their negative influence. Children are often drawn to them because: 

• The fame and popularity of the idol make their behaviour seem attractive and desirable. 

• They confuse an arrogant attitude with confidence because it appears “powerful” on screen. 

• They see rude or dismissive behaviour being rewarded with laughs, likes, or media attention. 

Expose the Reality Behind the Image 

Help your child develop a critical eye by explaining that what they see on screen is often an exaggerated performance, not a reflection of real life. 

‘Celebrities sometimes act rudely because it gets them attention, but in the real world, that kind of behaviour damages relationships and loses respect.’ 

This helps to separate the fictional persona from genuine character. 

Highlight the Consequences of Bad Manners 

Discuss how arrogance and disrespect ultimately push people away, while humility and kindness are what build lasting friendships and trust. Share examples of well-respected people who are remembered not for their fame, but for their excellent character. 

Provide Positive Role Models 

Actively introduce your child to figures both within your family and from the wider community who embody humility, respect, and responsibility. Intentionally link admiration to people whose qualities are worth imitating, steering their focus towards substance over style. 

Reinforce Good Manners at Home 

Make good manners a celebrated part of your family’s identity. When your child speaks politely, shows gratitude, or acts with humility, praise them warmly. 

‘I loved the way you thanked your teacher so sincerely today. That shows real class and character.’ 

This shifts their focus from idolising the negative behaviour of celebrities to valuing and practising respectful habits in their own life. By doing so, you teach your child that true honour comes not from arrogance, but from kindness. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that the only true role models are those whose character is pleasing to Allah, not those who achieve fleeting popularity through bad manners. Children must be taught to direct their admiration towards those who uplift their faith and character. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the ultimate and most excellent example for all believers to follow. 

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 reminds us that the true standard of character has already been set by the Prophet ﷺ. By studying his life, we find the perfect model of humility, kindness, and integrity. 

The heaviest and most valuable asset a believer will have on the Day of Judgement is their good character. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2002, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Nothing is heavier on the believer’s scale on the Day of Judgement than good character.’ 

This hadith teaches a profound lesson: what truly lasts is not fame or glamour, but the weight of our good manners in the sight of Allah. By teaching your child to look beyond superficial screen idols and to admire character over popularity, you are shaping their vision of true success. Over time, they will learn that greatness lies not in rudeness, but in humility, kindness, and the noble example of those who are beloved to Allah.