The Role of the Family in Fostering Children's Moral Development in the Digital Age An Analytical Study in Light of the Challenges and Opportunities Posed by the Contemporary Digital Environment

Abstract

This scientific paper examines the role of the family in promoting children’s moral development amid the rapid transformations brought about by the digital age, based on the premise that the family represents the primary educational institution responsible for instilling values and shaping individuals’ moral conscience from early childhood. The paper seeks to analyze the nature of the challenges facing the family’s moral function within an open digital environment characterized by an abundance of content, multiple sources of socialization, and the declining effectiveness of traditional forms of parental supervision. At the same time, it explores the opportunities provided by the digital space to enhance this role when digital technologies are appropriately and effectively utilized.

The paper adopts a descriptive-analytical approach through a review of relevant Arabic literature and previous studies. It concludes that, in many contexts, the family’s educational and moral awareness role in the digital age remains below the desired level. Strengthening this role requires concerted efforts among the family, school, civil society, and media, alongside the development of parents’ digital and educational competencies. The paper concludes by presenting a set of practical recommendations directed toward families and educational policymakers.