Parenting Perspective 

The content on YouTube often presents an exaggerated or heavily edited version of reality, where influencers and families showcase only the best parts of their lives, such as exciting trips, new toys, perfectly decorated rooms, or moments of constant laughter. When children compare their own lives to these portrayals, they may begin to feel that their own reality is dull, lacking, or less worthy. 

The Impact on Self-Worth 

Children may begin to ask themselves, “Why does my life not look like that?” This can create powerful feelings of jealousy and inadequacy. They may start to undervalue their own unique blessings, focusing instead on what they believe they are missing out on. 

Pressure on Identity and Lifestyle 

This constant exposure to idealised content can create a number of pressures for a child. 

• They may ask for expensive items or experiences simply to feel that they are equal to what they see online. 

• They may also feel embarrassed by their own home, their clothes, or even their family if these do not match the polished and perfect images they see on YouTube. 

Strain on Family Relationships 

When a child is constantly feeling dissatisfied, their parents may feel pressured to try to meet these unrealistic expectations. This can cause unnecessary conflict and tension in the home, as parents try to explain their financial or moral boundaries while the child continues to make comparisons. 

Supporting the Child Through Comparisons 

Parents can help their child navigate this modern challenge by: 

• Explaining in age-appropriate ways that much of what is shown online is edited, sponsored, or staged for the camera. 

• Encouraging gratitude practices, such as sharing three things that they are thankful for each day at bedtime. 

• Highlighting the difference between entertainment and reality, teaching them that life’s true joy comes from meaningful relationships, not from online displays. 

This gentle guidance helps to restore a sense of balance, allowing the child to value their own life without being crushed by unrealistic comparisons. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam cautions us against envy and excessive comparison, reminding believers that real and lasting success lies in developing the qualities of gratitude and patience. The culture of comparison on platforms like YouTube can feed unhealthy desires, causing children to lose sight of all the blessings that Allah Almighty has already given them. 

Guarding Against Envy 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nisa (4), Verses 32: 

‘And do not begrudge what benefactions have been given by Allah (Almighty), some of you instead of others…’ 

This verse reminds us that making comparisons with others only breeds dissatisfaction, whereas the practice of gratitude is what leads to true contentment. 

The Prophet’s ﷺ Reminder 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 466, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Look at those who are beneath you and do not look at those who are above you, for it is more suitable that you should not consider the favour of Allah as insignificant.’ 

This beautiful Hadith teaches children and adults alike to focus on the blessings they have, rather than constantly comparing themselves to those who appear to have more. 

By reminding your children that contentment is a gift from Allah and that comparison robs them of their joy, you can guide them back to valuing their own lives. This approach nurtures within them the virtues of gratitude, humility, and resilience, protecting them from the emotional harm of measuring themselves against the staged and artificial realities they see online.