Can a child’s trust in their parent weaken if they always see the parent absorbed in devices? 

Parenting Perspective 

Yes, a parent’s prolonged absorption in devices can absolutely weaken a child’s trust. This trust is built not just on big promises, but on a foundation of consistent emotional availability. When a child frequently has to compete with a screen for a parent’s attention, they may begin to doubt whether their needs will be met or taken seriously, which can slowly erode their sense of security. 

Missed Moments Accumulate 

Children are acutely aware when their stories are cut short or their questions are delayed because of a screen. While a single instance may seem minor, these small missed moments accumulate over time. Gradually, they can undermine a child’s core belief that their voice is important and worthy of being heard. 

Impact on Emotional Security 

This inconsistent responsiveness from a parent can have a direct impact on a child’s emotional security. Some children may learn to retreat emotionally and stop trying to connect, while others may resort to negative behaviour as a way to force a reaction and regain your attention. 

Rebuilding Trust Through Intentional Habits 

You can protect and rebuild this trust through small but intentional habits. Make it a rule to pause your device and make eye contact the moment they approach you. Establishing short, protected tech-free periods each day creates a reliable space for connection. Even brief but fully attentive responses help to restore their sense of your dependability. 

When your child consistently sees that your presence is more important to you than any device, their trust in your love and availability will deepen. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that trust (amanah) is a sacred responsibility. The trust our children place in us is a particularly precious part of this duty, and it must be actively preserved through consistent care and attention. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mu’minoon (23), Verses 8–9: 

‘And those people who are responsible in the execution of all matters entrusted to them and promised by them. And those people that secure their prayers (from any frivolous thoughts)…‘ 

These verses describe the successful believers as those who are faithful to their trusts. This reminds us that upholding our commitments applies to all areas of our lives, especially the sacred bond of trust we share with our children. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1921, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A believer is one from whom people’s lives and wealth are safe.’ 

This teaches us that a core quality of a believer is that they are a source of safety for others. For a parent, this means being a reliable and attentive presence, which is fundamental to making a child feel emotionally and physically secure. 

By consistently showing that your child is never second place to a device, you actively safeguard the trust that is essential for shaping their future emotional and moral stability.