Parenting Perspective 

Stay True to Your Beliefs 

Preparing your child to resist bad influences in groups involves helping them to build the confidence to make decisions that are based on their values, rather than succumbing to peer pressure. You can start by discussing the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs and principles, even when they are surrounded by others who may encourage them to do otherwise. You might say, ‘It is important to remember who you are and what you believe in, even if everyone around you is doing something different. You are strong enough to make the right choice.’ 

It is important to reinforce that the strength to resist a bad influence comes from understanding that making the right choices is more important than fitting in. ‘It is better to stand by what is right, even if it means being different from the crowd. True friends will respect you for staying true to yourself.’ 

Praise Integrity 

Finally, you should praise your child for showing integrity and for making good choices when they are faced with pressure. ‘I am really proud of you for saying no when you felt that something was not right. You showed great strength and character today.’ 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, resisting a bad influence and standing firm in one’s beliefs is highly valued. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nisa (4), Verse 105: 

‘Indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have revealed upon you (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) the Book (the Quran) with absolute certainty; so that you may judge between people with (the knowledge) exhibited to you by Allah (Almighty); and do not advocate for the deceitful (people).’ 

This verse teaches us that we should resist influences that lead us away from the truth and remain committed to what is right, even when we are surrounded by others who may not share the same values. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of resisting peer pressure and of making decisions based on one’s faith and righteousness. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith teaches us that our integrity and our commitment to having a good character should guide all our decisions, including how we interact with groups and with our peers. By preparing your child to resist bad influences and to make decisions based on their faith, you are helping them to align with these Islamic values of integrity, righteousness, and strength of character.