Scott and SadieParents claim they love their kids equally, but deep down, we all know there’s that one child who gets a little extra sparkle in Mom or Dad’s eye. Now, science has confirmed what siblings have suspected for years: Parents really do play favorites. A new study breaks down the factors that influence parental favoritism—and let’s just say, being the “favorite” might not be all sunshine and rainbows.
Here’s what researchers uncovered:
- Birth Order Bias
Firstborns often snag the title of “favorite” simply because they came first. They tend to benefit from all the initial excitement of parenting—and all the overzealous parenting mistakes, too. - The “Easy” Child Advantage
Parents often lean toward the kid who’s easier to handle. So if you never went through an “emo phase” or had screaming matches over curfew, congrats! You might be the favorite. - The Shared Interest Rule
If you share hobbies, tastes, or interests with a parent—say, you both love fishing or binging true crime documentaries—that connection can nudge you toward favorite status. - Who Calls More Often?
Adult children take note: The kid who picks up the phone to call Mom regularly tends to win some favoritism points. So, that annual Mother’s Day card isn’t cutting it anymore. - Parents Won’t Admit It
While the favoritism exists, parents still deny it. They’ll insist they “love all their kids equally,” even as they clearly prefer your sibling’s casserole at Thanksgiving.
Your Turn: Spill the Sibling Tea
Were you the favorite child growing up, or did your sibling hog the spotlight? And if you’re a parent, do you have a favorite—come on, you can admit it here, we won’t judge! Share your family dynamics in the comments below.
