We do not fight, but we also do not listen. There is constant distraction, phones, TV, rushing. How does emotional absence affect what our child learns about communication? 

Parenting Perspective 

The Impact of Emotional Absence 

In some cases, emotional absence can be more harmful than visible conflict. When children grow up in a home where relationships are continually filtered through devices, half-listening, or activity, they internalise the notion that connection is elective and superficial. Even in the absence of disputes or rising voices, the absence of presence teaches children that communication is about transaction rather than listening : complete the task and then move on. This diminishes their capacity to establish profound, attentive connections and increases their likelihood of replicating this lack of attentiveness in their personal relationships. 

A Strategy for Reconnection 

The remedy is not to become overly concentrated or hyper-attentive, but rather to re-establish little rituals of complete present. One unbroken five-minute conversation, one lunch without phones, one moment of stillness when a child discloses something – these simple acts communicate: “You matter. I am here.” Children do not require continual stimulus. They seek attunement. By showing present, not just physically, but emotionally, you begin to re-anchor communication as sacred rather than casual. And by doing so, your child learns that relationships are founded not just on talking, but also on actually hearing each other – even when it is inconvenient. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, communication is more than a social tool; it reflects adab (etiquette), rahmah (mercy), and niyyah (intention). The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ never let distractions diminish his presence. Whether with family, companions, or strangers, he paid complete attention by rotating his body, facing them directly, and replying with care, even in brief exchanges. This was not a gesture. It was a spiritual discipline. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mujadilah (58), Verse 1: 

‘Indeed, Allah (Almighty) has heard the words of the one who debates with you (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) in regards to her husband … and Allah (Almighty) hears your discussions; indeed, Allah is All Hearing and All Seeing.’ 

Even in the most mundane discussions, Allah Almighty hears. Should not we aspire to do the same for people in our care? 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4682, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, 

The most perfect believer in respect of faith is he who is best of them in manners. 

Manners involve being present for others hence in a world of noise and distraction, being present is a type of worship. When you slow down to properly listen, you show your child that love is more than simply feelings; it is heard.