Expert shares 5 tips on dealing with parental favouritism

Feeling like the least favourite child could affect one mentally, going well into adulthood.

Rima Bhandekar Psychologist Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust shared that low confidence in oneself, comparisons with siblings over unresolved past, or feeling insecure are common tell-tale signs. (Source: Freepik)

Bhandekar shared 5 ways to deal with parental favouritism:

Speak to parents kindly:

Sometimes parents don’t even realize they’re playing favourites. Try to muster up courage to speak to them in an honest, calm way that opens the door to better understanding. Use words that speak about your feelings about it – “I want to tell you something which has been on my mind. I feel left out when you compliment [sibling] a lot more than me.” (Source: Freepik)

Control what you can:

You may not become their favourite squad as you wish, but you can switch how you respond to their behaviour. Focus on growing your strength—whether it’s school, competitions, sports, or just being a good human. Let your splendidness shine, even if it feels like no one’s watching. (Source: Freepik)

Find your guiding spirit:

Try to connect with someone near you who is in a position of understanding you closely – may be a teacher, a counsellor, a sports coach. Let those people lift your spirits when things feel heavy, and help you see your own worth. (Source: Freepik)

Don't take it personally:

No one knows about parents’ personal struggles more than themselves, and favouritism usually has more to do with it than anything you’ve done. Maybe they relate more to one child, or one sibling reminds them of their own childhood. Favouritism doesn't suggest you're any less lovable. (Source: Freepik)

Focus on building your world:

You could use the freedom of not being the center of parent’s attention by realizing your own world—filled with your passions, friendships, your dreams- into reality. (Source: Freepik)