🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #165

My child refuses to acknowledge his half-siblings (same father) and will not make friends with them. What should I do?

Do not force your child to accept his siblings immediately, because refusal usually hides feelings that have not yet been talked about. Find a calm time to ask why he refuses: perhaps he is jealous of his father's attention, afraid of being replaced, or hurt by the family situation. Listen without scolding or labelling him a disobedient child. Keep setting an example by speaking positively about his siblings, without forcing interaction. Give him relaxed, low-pressure meetings, such as being present at family events with no pressure to be friendly. Praise every small step towards acceptance. If the refusal goes on and pains him, consider help from a counsellor. See children in polygyny.

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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