The effect of parental differential treatment on the sibling relationship quality of adolescents

Abstract

In the family context, with the limitations of parents' resources and the differences in children's needs and development, parental differential treatment of their children is inevitable. However, during adolescence, physical and psychological changes make them more sensitive to this difference and their sibling relationships also undergo specific changes. So, how is this difference related, and how does it affect the quality of sibling relationships of adolescents? To find out, an online survey was conducted among 147 junior high school students who have only one sibling, are currently studying, and live with their parents in Hanoi. The results of the regression model showed that paternal and maternal differential affection towards their children and maternal differential control have negative effects on the quality of sibling relationships among adolescents. Specifically, paternal and maternal differential affection has a more substantial influence, while the maternal influence is more evident. To improve the quality of health of the children's relationships, parents, especially mothers, should pay attention to adjust their emotional approach to their children.