Study Finds Parents Tend to Favor Their Youngest Child

A new survey challenges the long-held belief that parents don’t have favorites, revealing that many tend to prefer their youngest child.

Conducted across parenting websites Mumsnet and Gransnet, the study surveyed 1,185 mothers and found that over half admitted to favoring their youngest child. In contrast, only 26% said their eldest was their favorite. Among those who leaned toward their youngest, 61% cited the older siblings being "tricky or demanding" as a key reason.

However, these findings contrast with a 2016 study from the University of California, which suggested that firstborns are actually favored. Unlike the Mumsnet survey, which relied on direct responses, the university's research analyzed parental behavior toward siblings to determine favoritism.

Justine Roberts, founder of Gransnet, acknowledged the emotional weight of favoritism, saying, “Favouritism is one of the last taboos and can provoke a lot of guilt. But feeling a stronger connection with a particular child—often the one who puts their shoes on without a fight—is common and doesn’t have to be disastrous.”

She emphasized that while parents may connect differently with each child, the most important thing is to love them all unconditionally..

Source: Harpers Bazaar