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Are you the favorite child? Science reveals the traits parents prefer
It’s one of those family secrets that no one dares to mention out loud, but science has revealed that many parents do have a favorite child.
Parents do indeed have preferences among their children, and these tend to lean toward daughters, firstborns and those who demonstrate conscientious traits, according to a meta-analysis recently published by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Now, a new study from Brigham Young University and Western University, based on data from more than 19,000 participants , sheds light on what characteristics make a child receive more favorable treatment from his or her parents.
The results show that men tend to favor daughters over sons , disproving the belief that parents prefer same-sex children.
In addition, children with a more conscientious and kind personality also receive preferential treatment, while older siblings usually enjoy greater autonomy.
But experts warn that while parental favoritism may seem harmless, its effects can be profound.
Previous studies have shown that disadvantaged children may develop mental health problems , have lower academic performance and even experience more conflictual family relationships.
Factors influencing parental preference
The researchers, led by Alexander C. Jensen and McKell A. Jorgensen-Wells, analyzed how different factors affect parental preference, including birth order, gender, temperament, and personality .
Beyond the aforementioned preference for daughters over sons, they come to the conclusion that:
- Personality influences favoritism : children with a more conscientious (orderly and responsible) and agreeable (friendly and cooperative) personality receive more positive treatment.
- Greater autonomy for first-borns : Older siblings often enjoy more independence and less parental control, especially when it comes to setting rules and regulations.
- Being extroverted has no impact : Although society values extroversion, this trait does not seem to influence parental preference.
