Based on research, youngest children are more likely to report being the favorite child of their parents. This is especially true for the youngest boys in a family.
Favorite Child Statistics
The statistics demonstrate a clear trend:
| Child's Birth Order | Percentage Reporting They Were the Favorite |
|---|---|
| Youngest Child | 38% |
| Oldest Child | 27% |
- The numbers show that the youngest children feel they were favored more often compared to the oldest.
Why Youngest Children Might Feel Favored
Several factors could explain why younger children feel they are their parents' favorite:
- The "Baby" of the Family: Youngest children are often perceived as the "baby" of the family, which may lead to parents showing more attention and indulgence.
- Less Pressure: Older children often experience more pressure from parents, who expect them to be responsible and set an example.
- Less Conflict: Parents may be more relaxed and experienced with the youngest child, resulting in fewer conflicts and potentially perceived favoritism.
Important Notes
- These are perceptions of being a favorite, not necessarily what is a parent's actual feeling. Parents may have a hard time admitting a favorite.
- These statistics don't imply that parents actually love any one child more than another.
