Parental love under the microscope: Do you unconsciously prefer your child?

Parental love under the microscope: Do you unconsciously prefer your child?

Children are a great treasure, but the question of preference among siblings often remains unanswered. A study by Brigham Young University has now shown that many parents unconsciously have a child to whom they feel particularly attached. This finding has been widely studied and has the potential to significantly impact family life. How much power do these family preferences have, and what do they mean for the children?

Surprisingly, the results show that differences in parental treatment should not be viewed negatively from the outset. However, it should be noted that unreflective preferences can become problematic. Children who are more similar to their parents often experience positive favoritism, which manifests itself in fewer conflicts and more pleasant experiences. Often it is the children who demand more attention, who enjoy a more intense bond and therefore more closeness. According to a report by KA-News, the question arises as to whether this dynamic is always harmless to health or whether it can have long-term consequences.

Research results and preferences

The study, published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, draws on data from over 19,000 participants from 30 different studies. A key finding is that both fathers and mothers tend to prefer girls. The reasons are varied: Girls are often perceived as calmer and better at following rules, making them less challenging. This is evident in the analyzed data provided by the Hello Parents site. An interesting observation is that girls themselves do not feel that they are being treated preferentially. This could suggest that perceptions of favoritism do not always match reality.

The study also shows that older siblings tend to be given more responsibility and independence, which in turn leads to a stronger bond. Professor Alexander Jensen of Brigham Young University advises parents to become aware of these patterns. Parental preferences should not be hidden, but should be actively addressed in order to avoid future misunderstandings and conflicts.

Consequences of favoritism

What impact does it have on the children? Preferred children tend to demonstrate more stable mental health, be more successful in their careers, and maintain longer-term relationships. In contrast, there are those children who receive less attention and therefore often experience poorer developmental outcomes. This dynamic can impact self-confidence and family relationships, study findings highlight. A conscious approach to parental behavior is therefore advisable.

To ensure fair treatment of all children, Jensen's research recommends a number of measures: establishing uniform rules for all siblings, having open conversations about emotional affection and specifically balancing existing inequalities. This is the only way family relationships can be made fair.

Overall, the realization that children are often unconsciously favored should be taken as an opportunity to create a harmonious and supportive family environment. With a good hand and a sense of proportion, parents can help all children feel loved and valued. It's worth thinking about your own patterns and introducing positive changes. Visit KA News, Hello parents and daily news for more information on this exciting topic.