#IslamicValuesInParenting

[qalaqalnafsi]

Assalamu alaikum everyone! I’m increasingly hearing from parents (and feeling it myself!) about the challenges our kids face growing up in this AI-driven world. We’re constantly navigating a minefield of social pressures amplified by technology. The rise of social media and AI has brought a surge in feelings of social isolation, social comparison, and social anxiety, affecting both children and adults alike. It’s a real fitnah, but we can guide our children back to their fitrah – their natural, God-given state.

The Reality of Social Isolation and Anxiety.

In my counseling sessions, I frequently encounter children and teens who feel disconnected from their peers, despite being constantly “plugged in.” One young girl, whom I’ll call Amina, shared with me how she felt more alone than ever, even while scrolling through her friends’ posts on social media. She described a sense of emptiness, as if everyone else was living a vibrant life while she was stuck in a gray world of her own. This feeling of isolation is not uncommon; many children today report feeling lonely, even when they are surrounded by screens.

Moreover, the pressure to present a perfect image online can lead to unhealthy social comparisons. Amina often compared herself to the seemingly perfect lives of influencers and friends, which only deepened her feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. This cycle of comparison can be detrimental, especially when it leads to a distorted self-image.

Strategies Based on Islamic Values: To combat these feelings of isolation and anxiety, we can turn to the teachings of Islam, which emphasize community, self-worth, and resilience. Here are some strategies that I recommend to parents:

Foster Real Connections: Encourage your children to engage in face-to-face interactions. Organize family outings, community events, or even simple game nights at home. These real-life connections can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Teach Gratitude and Contentment: Instill the values of shukr (gratitude) and qana’ah (contentment) in your children. Remind them of the blessings they have and encourage them to appreciate their unique qualities. The Quran teaches us to be grateful for what we have, which can help shift focus away from comparison.

Promote Healthy Media Consumption: Discuss the impact of social media on mental health with your children. Help them understand that what they see online is often curated and not a true reflection of reality. Encourage them to take breaks from social media to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.

Create a Safe Space for Expression: Make it a habit to check in with your children about their feelings. Create an environment where they feel safe to express their anxieties and fears without judgment. This aligns with the Islamic principle of compassion and support within the family.

Incorporate Mindfulness and Prayer: Encourage your children to engage in mindfulness practices, such as prayer (salah) and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). These practices can help ground them and provide a sense of peace amidst the chaos of modern life.

Model Positive Behavior: As parents, it’s essential to model healthy coping mechanisms. Share your own experiences with social comparison and how you navigate these feelings through faith and community support.

Seek Professional Help When Needed: If feelings of anxiety or isolation persist, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified counselor or therapist. This proactive step can be crucial for mental well-being. (Visit-www.qalaqalnafsi.com)

A Personal Anecdote Reflecting on my session with Amina, I encouraged her to start a gratitude journal, where she could write down three things she was thankful for each day. Initially hesitant, she soon found joy in recognising the small blessings in her life, like a supportive family, a favourite book, or a sunny day. Over time, this practice helped her shift her focus from what she lacked to what she had, fostering a sense of contentment and reducing her anxiety.

Navigating the challenges of parenting in an AI-driven world requires a thoughtful approach rooted in Islamic values. By fostering real connections, promoting gratitude, and encouraging open communication, we can help our children transition from fitnah (chaos) to fitrah (natural disposition).

Together, we can build a supportive environment that nurtures their mental health and spiritual well-being.

Learn more:

Amazon.com: Islamic Parenting In the Digital Age: An Islamic Guide To the Challenges of Modern Parenthood with Faith and Wisdom: 9798850608965: Al-Nawawi, Hanifa Ibn: Books

Islam and social work: Culturally sensitive practice in a diverse world 9781447330134 – DOKUMEN.PUB

To Book a therapy session email us at help@qalaqalnafsi.com