How do children react when parents refuse items advertised online? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child sees an attractive product advertised online and their parents refuse to buy it, their initial reaction is often one of frustration. The power of modern advertising, with its bright visuals and promises of happiness, can easily convince a child that the item is essential. A parent’s refusal can therefore feel like a personal rejection of their desires, and some children may respond with tantrums or anger. 

Immediate Feelings of Frustration 

The immediacy of online shopping creates an expectation of instant gratification. When this expectation is not met, a child can feel a sharp sense of disappointment that they may not yet have the emotional tools to manage calmly. 

A Misinterpretation of Love and Care 

Children can wrongly assume that their parents do not care about their wishes or that they are being deliberately unfair. Younger children may cry or insist repeatedly, while older children might compare their situation with that of their friends. This misunderstanding, if not addressed with empathy, harms the parent-child relationship. 

The Strain on Gratitude and Patience 

A parent’s refusal, if not explained wisely, can weaken a child’s ability to appreciate what they already have. They may begin to see love as something that is measured by purchases, rather than by time, care, and guidance. This can erode their patience and foster a sense of entitlement. 

The Long-Term Reactions 

This pattern can have lasting effects. 

• Resentment: Some children may develop resentment, assuming their parents are being unnecessarily strict. 

• Sensitivity to Peer Pressure: They may feel inferior if their classmates own the advertised items. 

• Weakened Self-Control: Without proper guidance, they may struggle to say ‘no’ to their own desires as adults. 

Guiding Children Through Advertising Refusals 

Parents can respond to these situations constructively. 

• Explain how advertisements exaggerate and do not always show the reality of a product. 

• Teach your child the difference between wants and needs in simple, clear terms. 

• Redirect their attention to experiences, family time, or other affordable and meaningful alternatives. 

• Acknowledge their feelings while setting clear boundaries, so that your child feels heard but is also guided. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that self-restraint is a cornerstone of a strong character. The constant barrage of online advertising tests this quality by encouraging impulsive desires. A parent’s refusal to buy an item is not just a financial decision but an opportunity to teach a child the valuable spiritual lesson of managing their wants and placing their trust in Allah’s wisdom. 

A Quranic Reminder on Worldly Desires 

The Quran teaches that while the attractions of this world are appealing, they are temporary and should not distract a believer from the ultimate goal of the Hereafter. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 14: 

‘For mankind the love of superficial desires has been (innately) glamorised, by (the desire of) women; (the birth of) sons (for the continuation of the bloodline); and the heaped up piles of gold and silver; and the pedigree horses, and the cattle, and the fertile lands; all of this is for the enjoyment of the worldly life, however, the most excellent outcome is that which is in the possession of Allah (Almighty).‘ 

This verse teaches that worldly attractions are temporary and should not overshadow the eternal reward with Allah. 

The Prophetic Teaching on Resisting Temptation 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that true success lies not in chasing every desire, but in being content with what is sufficient. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2965, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Successful is the one who enters Islam, is provided with what is sufficient for his needs, and Allah makes him content with what He has given him.’ 

This hadith highlights that true success is found in sufficiency and contentment. 

By connecting a refusal to buy something with a lesson on gratitude and moderation, parents can teach their children that not every want needs to be fulfilled. This nurtures patience, strengthens faith, and protects them from being controlled by consumer culture, guiding them towards the lasting peace that is found in contentment.