Do Parents Have a Favorite Child?

If you have siblings, chances are the question has crossed your mind at some point: “Who is the favorite child?” Most parents will usually say the answer is “all of you” or “none of you,” but recent research suggests the reality may be more complicated.

A recent The New York Times article highlights studies showing that parents often do have unconscious preferences. These preferences aren’t usually intentional—and they don’t mean a parent loves one child more than another—but they can subtly shape family dynamics, sibling relationships, and even a child’s long-term emotional well-being.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Jen Hartstein of Hartstein Psychological Services joins NBC News to break down what the research really says, why parental favoritism happens, and how it can impact both children and parents over time.

So—do parents actually have a favorite child, and what does it mean if they do? Watch the full interview to learn more about the psychology behind parent preference and what families can do to foster healthier relationships.