Were you Mummy’s best girl or her special boy?
If not, you may have been jealous of that one sibling who was the apple of her eye. According to a new study however, it’s not always a good thing in the long run.
According to new research, children who see themselves as their mother’s favourite child are more likely to suffer depressive symptoms later in life.
Previous studies showed that 65 per cent of mothers and 70 per cent of fathers favour one child over their siblings.
Now the latest research finds that the favourite, or the child who believes they are emotionally closer to their mum, is more likely to supper from depression as an adult.
Apparently, being a constant target of sibling rivalry and having an increased sense of obligation towards the parent who favours you can have a negative effect.
‘There is a cost for those who perceive they are the closest emotionally to their mothers, and these children report higher depressive symptoms,’ said study lead Professor Jill Suitor of Purdue University in Indiana.
Analysing the data of 725 adult children (average age: 49), the team measured each participant’s personal levels of emotional closeness, disappointment, conflict and pride.
‘We find it particularly intriguing that siblings continue to engage in such a high degree of social comparison even well into their middle years.’ said co-author Megan Gilligan, from Iowa State University.
Did your parents have a favourite? Would you admit to having one? Let us know on Twitter @HerFamilydotie.
