Psychologists are examining the complexities of parental favoritism, revealing that it may not be a myth after all. Research published by the American Psychological Association indicates that parents often favor daughters and children who exhibit agreeableness and conscientiousness.

"For decades, researchers have known that differential treatment from parents can have lasting consequences for children," said lead author Alexander Jensen, PhD, an associate professor at Brigham Young University. "This study helps us understand which children are more likely to be on the receiving end of favoritism, which can be both positive and negative."

Published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, the study explored how children's characteristics influence parental treatment while considering variables such as child age and parent gender. The research involved a meta-analysis of 30 peer-reviewed articles and dissertations along with data from 14 databases, totaling 19,469 participants.

The study examined birth order, gender, temperament, and personality traits like extraversion and conscientiousness in relation to parental favoritism. Researchers found that mothers and fathers were more inclined to favor daughters over sons. Conscientious children—those seen as responsible—were also treated more favorably.

"Americans seem to particularly value extraverted people, but within families it may matter less," said Jensen regarding the surprising lack of association between extraversion and favoritism.

Older siblings tended to receive greater autonomy from parents possibly due to their maturity level. Other factors such as child age or parent gender played minimal roles in influencing parent-child relationships concerning favoritism.

Jensen noted that siblings receiving less favorable treatment might experience poorer mental health outcomes and strained family dynamics. "Understanding these nuances can help parents and clinicians recognize potentially damaging family patterns," he stated.

The researchers hope their findings will prompt parents to acknowledge biases in their interactions with their children. "It is important to note that this research is correlational, so it doesn’t tell us why parents favor certain children," Jensen emphasized.

The study's insights suggest various factors beyond mere preference for eldest or youngest might contribute to perceived favoritism. It highlights responsibility and temperament as possible influences on parental behavior towards different children.

Article: “Parents Favor Daughters: A Meta-Analysis of Gender and Other Predictors of Parental Differential Treatment,” by Alexander Jensen, PhD, Brigham Young University; McKell Jorgensen-Wells, MS, Western University; published online Jan. 16, 2025.

Alexander Jensen can be reached via email for further information on this research.