No, the first-born child is not always the favorite. While favoritism is a complex topic, studies indicate that parental preference can vary depending on factors like the number of children in the family.
Based on the provided reference, the youngest child is more likely to be the favorite than the oldest, when families have at least three children.
Parental Favoritism Breakdown
The reference provides a glimpse into favoritism among parents with three or more children. Here's a breakdown:
- Last-Born: 43% of parents favor their youngest child.
- Middle Child: 38% of parents prefer their middle child.
- Eldest Child: Only 19% of parents lean towards their first-born.
This information suggests that when families have three or more children, the first-born is the least likely to be the favorite.
Why the Last-Born Might Be Favored
There are several theories as to why the youngest child might be favored:
- "Baby" of the Family: The youngest child often retains the "baby" status, receiving more attention and care.
- Relaxed Parenting: Parents may be more relaxed and experienced by the time the youngest child arrives, leading to a different dynamic.
- Recency Effect: The youngest child is simply the most recent to be cared for, potentially leading to a stronger bond.
Important Considerations
It's important to note that these are general trends, and favoritism is highly subjective and individual. Factors such as personality, gender, and individual parent-child relationships also play a significant role.
