The article discusses the prevalence of parental favoritism, noting that even parents who deny favoritism likely exhibit it. Evidence suggests that factors like gender, birth order, and personality traits influence differential treatment among children. This favoritism can be problematic, impacting the emotional and psychological well-being of less favored children, though it’s unclear which factors contribute to favoritism. The piece emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing each child's unique traits, noting that parents’ personal biases can affect their relationships with their children, especially if those traits remind them of past relationships.
Even parents who claim they do not have a favorite child very likely do. A recent study found that gender and birth order are related to parental differential treatment.
Favoritism is problematic. Less favored children tend to have a harder time in life. Of course, the directionality is unclear.
It's crucial to remember that your child is not your ex despite possible similarities, especially when arguments arise.
Preferential treatment in parenting is often influenced by personal biases such as one's own childhood experiences or relationships.
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