Thursday Tribune Article

The Favourite Child Syndrome: The Influence of Parental Preference on Their Children’s Mental Health

Bola is the third of five children. Her older sister was "the pretty one." Her younger sister was "the baby." Her two brothers were automatically valuable as boys. She was nothing, not the first, last, a male or particularly beautiful by her family’s standards. She describes her childhood as being invisible. She worked fiercely to excel, graduated top of her class, earned a scholarship to study abroad, and built a successful career in the UK. She financially supports extended family, including siblings and parents. Despite her achievements, her parents still barely acknowledge her. When her "pretty" sister (who's achieved less but married well) visits, it's a celebration. She is resigned to the situation, and it no longer bothers her. Chidi is the first and only son of his parents. He was the favourite amongst his siblings, and he knew this destroyed his family. He was treated like royalty, attended the best schools, studied abroad, and received startup capital from his parents. His sisters, on the other hand, were told to manage and were constantly reminded that they were girls whenever they complained or needed help. His sisters barely speak to him now. Family gatherings are tense. Two sisters have cut off contact entirely. He feels a sense of guilt and feels like he has lost his sisters. He is now trying to reach out to them and make amends. He enjoyed the attention growing up, but with hindsight, he realises now that it was very destructive and certainly not worth it.

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Asido Kids Challenge 7th Edition