The Experience of Differential Parenting in Sister Relationships
The Experience of Differential Parenting in Sister Relationships
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Issue Date
2011
Authors
Barth, Kimberly A.
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Abstract
Although there have been studies examining the phenomenon of differential parenting and its effects on children, very few of these studies have explored this issue in depth, qualitatively. This study explored the understanding of parental favoritism by conducting an in-depth qualitative analysis into the subjective experience of individuals who felt less favored by their parents relative to their siblings, and examined what characterized this experience for them. The overall aim of this study was to utilize a conventional qualitative content analysis method to develop a systematic understanding of what the important aspects of this experience are. Conventional content analysis of semi-structured interviews with a sample of 10 adult participants who perceived themselves to be the less favored sibling in a sister relationship was used to examine the impact of perceived differential parenting. A number of common themes emerged from the analysis, including the perceived reasons behind the differential parenting, what the unfair differences in treatment were, the impact the differential treatment has on an individual's core self-esteem , and how experiencing differential treatment can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation. Consistent with previous research, birth order, parent and child similarities, and financial and emotional stability can lead to perceptions of parental favoritism. The study also validated previous literature regarding issues such as sibling jealousy and sibling comparisons leading to individuals having lower self-esteem . Furthermore, the study revealed that despite those who have experienced differential parenting experiencing a lot of hurt they still maintain a strong desire to improve their familial relationships and forgive past misdeeds . Past research and the current study show supportive evidence that differential parenting is not just a phenomenon present in childhood but that it impacts an individual throughout the duration of their life. The implications of these findings are discussed.
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Keywords
"Content Analysis","Qualitative Research","Sisters","Differential Parenting”,“Childhood Problems","Favoritism"