Parenting Perspective 

The unrealistic body standards that are so often portrayed in the media can deeply harm a child’s developing self-image. Constant exposure to these idealised figures, whether through cartoons, celebrities, online influencers, or advertisements, can lead children to compare themselves to filtered, edited, or exaggerated appearances. These comparisons can cause them to believe that their own natural bodies are not “good enough.” 

Feelings of Inadequacy 

Children may begin to dislike certain features, such as their weight, height, skin tone, or hair, simply because they do not match the portrayals they see in the media. This can lower their self-confidence, making them reluctant to join in with activities, speak up in groups, or express themselves freely. 

The Risk of Harmful Behaviours 

A child who is unhappy with their body may begin to copy extreme diets or exercise routines that are unsuitable for their age. 

• They may begin to overvalue physical appearance while undervaluing important qualities like character, kindness, and skills. 

• In more severe cases, this pressure can contribute to the development of eating disorders or other mental health struggles. 

Emotional Withdrawal and Shame 

When children are made to feel that their bodies are somehow “wrong,” they may begin to avoid social gatherings, having their photograph taken, or participating in sports. This can rob them of many joyful childhood experiences and can leave them carrying an unnecessary and heavy sense of shame. 

Supporting a Healthy Body Image 

Parents can help to protect their child from this harm by: 

• Encouraging an appreciation of what their body can do (such as running, playing, and helping) rather than just how it looks. 

• Praising their effort, their character, and their kindness more than their physical appearance. 

• Teaching them to recognise that the media often edits or exaggerates the images they see. 

• Modelling a healthy sense of self-acceptance in their own behaviour and speech. 

By consistently affirming their child’s intrinsic worth, parents can create a powerful buffer against these harmful comparisons. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that every human being has been created with dignity and that our physical differences are a part of the perfect and wise design of Allah Almighty. Allowing media standards to dictate our sense of worth goes directly against the Islamic principle of valuing what Allah has granted to us. 

The Honour in Our Creation 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Teen (95), Verses 4: 

‘Indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have created mankind with the best (designed) specification.’ 

This verse reminds us that every person has been created in the best and most beautiful form. Doubting our own worth because of our appearance is a way of denying the beauty that Allah Almighty has placed within each of us. 

The Prophet’s ﷺ Reminder 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Verily, Allah does not look at your appearance or wealth, but rather He looks at your hearts and actions.’ 

This Hadith teaches us that a person’s true value in the sight of Allah lies not in their physical appearance, but in the sincerity of their faith and the righteousness of their actions. 

When children are raised to value their hearts, their deeds, and their character above their physical looks, they develop a natural resilience against unhealthy media portrayals. Parents who tie their child’s self-worth to the principles of gratitude and service to Allah are helping them to grow into confident, secure, and content individuals who see their own unique form as a trust from Allah, not as a flaw.