How do I deal with my child imitating violent actions from shows? 

Parenting Perspective 

It is understandably worrying to see your child copying violent actions they have seen in television shows or online content. What children perceive as harmless play-acting can shape their attitude towards aggression, making them think that violence is an acceptable or even funny way to show strength. If left unaddressed, this imitation can affect how they interact with everyone around them. Your role is to respond with firm but calm guidance, helping them separate fantasy from reality and steering them towards peaceful, respectful behaviour. 

Why Children Copy Violent Scenes 

Children are often drawn to aggressive on-screen behaviour for simple reasons. They may be copying because: 

• They see characters being admired or rewarded for fighting or dominating others. 

• The exaggerated, fast-paced action seems exciting and powerful. 

• They are testing boundaries and enjoy the strong reaction this behaviour gets at home. 

Recognising these motives allows you to redirect the behaviour wisely. 

Set Clear Boundaries About Violence 

Explain directly and calmly that physical aggression is never acceptable, even when playing. 

‘I know you saw that on a show, but in our family, hurting others is not a game. We use our hands for helping and building, not for harming.’ 

This provides a firm and simple rule that separates fictional entertainment from real-life conduct. 

Redirect Energy to Safe Outlets 

Children often copy high-energy, violent actions because they have excess physical energy to burn. Provide them with healthy and safe alternatives, such as sports, outdoor play, or even martial arts classes that emphasise discipline and self-control. This channels their energy constructively without normalising aggression. 

Limit Exposure to Violent Media 

Be mindful of the content your child consumes. If a show consistently models violence as entertainment, it is important to replace it with age-appropriate options that encourage teamwork, problem-solving, or humour without harm. Explain your decision clearly so your child understands the reason behind it. 

Teach Empathy Through Reflection 

Guide your child to consider the real-life impact of the actions they are imitating. 

Ask a simple question: ‘How would it feel if someone actually did that to you? It would really hurt, would it not?’ 

This helps them connect on-screen actions to real-world feelings and discourages them from seeing violence as a game. 

Reinforce Peaceful Choices 

When your child chooses to use kind words or gentle actions instead of aggression, praise them specifically. 

‘I loved how you used your words to solve that disagreement instead of pushing. That shows real strength.’ 

This teaches them that true admiration is earned through self-control and respect, not through physical dominance. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam is unequivocal that causing harm to others is a sign of weakness, not strength. A true believer is expected to control their anger and use their physical abilities for good, not for aggression. Teaching this to children helps them develop a sense of honour and responsibility. 

The servants of Allah are defined by their humility and their peaceful response to provocation. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqaan (25), Verse 63: 

‘And the true servants of the One Who is Most Beneficent are those who wander around the Earth with humility; and when they are addressed by the ignorant people, they say: “Peace be unto you”.‘ 

This verse reminds us that the highest standard of character is to respond to harshness with peace, not to imitate aggression. 

True strength is measured not by physical power over others, but by power over oneself. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6114, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong man is not the one who can overpower others, but the one who controls himself when angry.’ 

This profound hadith redefines the meaning of strength for a child. It teaches that self-control is far more powerful than aggression. By teaching your child that Islam honours gentleness, you reshape their idea of what it means to be strong. They will learn that true dignity comes not from copying violent shows but from showing patience and kindness—qualities beloved by Allah.