Discoveries in the field of psychology continue to amaze us! Recently, scientists from Brigham Young University in Utah looked into the issue of parental favoritism. Published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, the study reveals that parents' treatment is not the same depending on whether their child is a boy or a girl.
Have you ever wondered whether your parents secretly had a favorite child? New #research in @APA_Journals shows both mothers and fathers are more likely to favor #daughters and kids who demonstrate responsibility: https://t.co/FvXAa6p3qR#parenting #siblings #science pic.twitter.com/RXGJOa0Itt
— American Psychological Association (@APA) January 16, 2025
Girls and conscientious children are the most favored
Have you ever wondered if your parents preferred your siblings over you? Well, it’s quite possible! “This study helps us understand which children are more likely to be recipients of favoritism, whether it's positive or negative,” explains Alexander Jensen, a professor at Brigham Young University.
While one might generally think that mothers favor their daughters and fathers prefer their sons, the study's findings showed that both mothers and fathers are more inclined to favor their daughters. Moreover, the data indicates that children <More conscientious, responsible, and organized ones receive better treatment. “ For decades, researchers have known that differences in treatment from parents can have lasting consequences on children ,” he clarifies.
Five Analyzed Areas
To carry out their study effectively, scientists relied on birth order, gender, temperament, and personality traits. The results of 30 previous studies involving 20,000 participants were thoroughly examined.
Five areas were highlighted: the general treatment of the child, positive interactions, negative interactions, control, and resource allocation. Scientists were able to determine that favoritism could manifest .in different forms among these themes. “ Understanding these nuances can help parents and clinicians recognize potentially harmful family patterns. It's essential to ensure that all children feel loved and supported
Decoding Favoritism: How Parents Shape Sibling Bonds
New research highlights how birth order, personality, and gender shape subtle parental favoritism and its effects on sibling dynamics.
The study reveals that younger siblings often receive more favorable treatment, while… pic.twitter.com/1YBahpX39Y
