You may think you’ve figured out who the favourite child is in your family.
Maybe they’re the one who aced their degree and has a high-flying job? Or is the sibling that appears in a few more framed photos than the other?
Well, if you’re not sure how to settle the debate, there’s one sure fire way to figure it out.
Find out who the ‘password child’ is.
As defined by The Urban Dictionary, the ‘password child’ is the child who is perceived to be the family’s ‘obvious favourite’.
Why? It’s because it’s their name or birth date that the parents use for their online passwords.
plz dont log into our netflix
The phrase was sparked when a TikToker posted a video, mocking parents who say they don’t have a favourite, with the words ‘password child’ splashed across the screen.
Since then, there have been nearly 50 million videos related to the password child trend – but there are some holes in the theory.
If you have a longer name, it makes for a stronger password, and if you’re an only child, it’s not like Mum and Dad have any other option.
Also, if your sibling came along after the advent of Netflix and online banking, it’s more likely that, as the only existing child at the time, you became the password child by default.
TikToker Zack As also pointed out that his dad’s password was his dog’s name – a harsh way to find out that the family pet outranks you. Ouch.
Of course, the impact of favoritism on a child isn’t good.
But Natalie Costa, a children and parent coach and founder of Power Thoughts, said that often, favouritism isn’t done on purpose.
Speaking previously to Metro.co.uk, she explains: ‘Often the favouritism is not intentional but can lead to one child feeling they are loved less than another, and to add to the complexity, studies have shown that even if parents do not favour one child over another, a child’s perception of feeling unfavoured can be just as detrimental as the reality of being unfavoured.’
So how can parents avoid favouring one child over the other – aside from changing a few internet passwords.
‘The first step,’ suggests Michelle, ‘is to acknowledge children’s perceptions and feelings about favouritism. Parental awareness is key.
‘Then, taking consistent actions to ensure equal treatment for all children, so that they feel valued and loved.’
‘Be kind to yourself,’ she reminds us. ‘Being a parent is really hard and you are just as much of a learner on this journey as is your child.
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
Source: Read Full Article
