What steps can parents take if a child develops body image issues after exposure to filtered influencer culture? 

Parenting Perspective 

Constant exposure to the filtered and highly edited images of online influencers can create unrealistic standards of beauty, often leading children to feel insecure about their own appearance. When a child begins to constantly compare themselves to these images, they may start to criticise their own body or feel that they are not good enough. It is crucial for parents to address these emerging body image issues with gentleness, wisdom, and a focus on building genuine self-worth. 

Understand and Acknowledge Your Child’s Struggle 

It is important to begin by acknowledging that your child’s feelings are real and painful, rather than dismissing them as being silly or unimportant. Validating their struggle creates a safe space for them to be honest about their insecurities and makes them more receptive to your guidance. This shows them that you are on their side. 

Discuss the Reality Behind Filters and Edited Images 

Gently explain that much of what is seen online is heavily edited or staged. You can even show them examples of how filters and photo-editing tools dramatically change a person’s appearance. Remind your child that influencers often present only the most perfect and unrealistic version of their lives. By exposing the illusion, you can help your child to separate fantasy from reality. 

Reframe the Concept of Beauty 

Guide your child to see that true beauty is something much broader and deeper than just physical looks. Encourage them to recognise and value qualities like kindness, intelligence, creativity, and resilience in themselves and others. Reinforce the idea that everyone has unique strengths, and that a person’s true worth is defined by their character and actions, not by their appearance. 

Encourage Healthy Habits and Environments 

Support your child in building a positive relationship with their body through healthy and balanced routines, such as nourishing meals, enjoyable physical activity, and getting adequate rest. You can also encourage them to follow content creators who promote creativity and positive skills, rather than just vanity. At home, it is crucial for parents to model self-acceptance, avoiding negative comments about their own bodies so that children can learn confidence through their example. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that a person’s true value is found in their faith, their character, and their inner qualities, not in their physical appearance. By grounding a child in this perspective, parents can help them to build a resilient sense of self-worth that is protected from the shallow and ever-changing standards of online culture. 

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 powerful verse is a reminder that every human being has been honoured by Allah with their own dignity and beauty, in the natural form that He created them. We do not need artificial enhancements to complete what Allah has already made perfect. 

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

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

This teaching provides the true measure of a person’s worth. What truly matters in the sight of Allah is not a filtered image or an outward perfection, but the sincerity of our hearts and the righteousness of our actions. 

By reminding your children of these timeless truths, you can help them to build resilience against harmful comparisons. This nurtures a deep sense of self-worth that is rooted not in fleeting online standards, but in their spiritual dignity as a creation of Allah.