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Do Parents Love Their First Child More?

Published in Parental Relationships 1 min read

While parental love is a complex emotion, research suggests mothers may feel closer to their firstborn child. According to a study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, 75% of mothers report feeling closer to their eldest child, her first born.

This doesn't necessarily mean they love their first child more, but rather that the feeling of closeness is more prevalent with the firstborn, at least among mothers. Understanding the nuances is important. Love is multifaceted, while "feeling closer" might be based on various factors.

Here's a breakdown:

Factor Description
Feeling Closer This refers to a sense of connection, understanding, and emotional intimacy. The firstborn often experiences the parents' undivided attention initially.
Love This is a broad emotion encompassing care, affection, and commitment. It can manifest differently for each child.

It's vital to avoid equating "feeling closer" with a lack of love for other children. Parental love is unique for each child, even if the feeling of closeness may vary.

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