Should parents play favorites?

Whether real or perceived, parental favoritism can have lifelong effects on kids. Research has found that the effect isn’t great, showing that children who perceive themselves as being the least favorite are more likely to do drugs and use alcohol and cigarettes in their teenage years.

What happens when a parent plays favorites?

Many parents who played favorites with their young children continue to do so after the kids grow up. Even if they don’t mean any harm, this behavior often makes the adult siblings feel like they’re still competing with each other for their parents’ affection.

Why do some parents play favorites?

Sometimes, parents prefer one child over another. Here are some reasons why. A large proportion of parents consistently favor one child over another. This favoritism can manifest in different ways: more time spent with one child, more affection given, more privileges, less discipline, or less abuse.

What is wrong with favoritism?

The Effects of Favoritism Favoritism can cause a child to have anger or behavior problems, increased levels of depression, a lack of confidence in themselves, and a refusal to interact well with others. These issues appear in children who were favored by a parent as well as those who were not.

Do parents play favorites with their kids?

Many parents who played favorites with their young children continue to do so after the kids grow up. Even if they don’t mean any harm, this behavior often makes the adult siblings feel like they’re still competing with each other for their parents’ affection. It’s natural to feel hurt, resentful, or guilty if your parents play favorites.

Why do parents have favorites?

Several studies have researched the rather difficult “myth” of parents having a favorite child, and have found that it’s actually true. Experts argue that it is normal for children to awaken different emotions in their parents. Therefore, parents can have more fluid relationships with certain children due to affinity and personality.

Do parents pick favorites?

Take a parent reality check. Your first step is to take an honest self-appraisal to your feelings about your children.

Commit to change. Take time to write a list of what you like most and what you like least about each child.

Try a strategy to reduce rivalry.