by: Lawrence Relacion & Rica Pabilonia

How do you define favoritism in the family?

Favoritism is when one sibling is more favored by a parent or parents over the other sibling/s. Favor means approval of one’s action even if it is wrong. This favoritism can manifest in different ways: more time spent with one child, more affection given, more privileges, less discipline, or less abuse  (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-narcissus-in-all-us/200901/when-parents-play-favorites)

Sometimes, favoritism can also be abusive. Mothers and fathers prefer one child for conscious or unconscious reasons at the expense of other children. This could lead to family problems such as inferiority complex or persecution complex of the unfavored child. When it is not recognized and addressed, it can create long-term emotional problems and can devastate family relationships.

(http://www.vision.org/visionmedia/parenting-issues/family-favoritism/43568.aspx)

You may be the most beloved child or the neglected one but always remember that it has to be fair. Everyone is special in their own right and some parents need to appreciate that. Yet, they still have to guide their children to what’s right or wrong. The needs of the children are crucial thus some focus on one and have unconsciously done it, not knowing one of their children needs more love and affection too.

In the end, the parents should be mindful to treat their children equally so that no one would be unfavored or too favored.