Why would a parent treat one of her daughters like Cinderella and her other two daughters like princesses?

Response:

There are several reasons a parent might treat one child differently from others, leading to a “Cinderella” dynamic:

1. Favoritism

• Parents may unconsciously show preference for one child due to personal traits, skills, or the parent’s own unresolved issues.

2. Child’s Behavior

• If one daughter is more rebellious or challenging, the parent might respond with stricter rules or more disciplined treatment, resembling Cinderella’s harsh treatment.

3. Societal or Cultural Expectations

• Cultural norms might influence parental expectations and treatment of children based on gender, birth order, or perceived societal roles.

4. Parental Issues

• The parent might be projecting their own experiences or insecurities onto one daughter, treating her differently based on their perceptions of herself.

5. Conflict and Rivalry

• Sibling rivalry may lead to unequal treatment, as children often react to parental favoritism or perceived injustices.

6. Lack of Awareness

• Some parents may not recognize the negative impacts of their differential treatment, believing it’s justified for various reasons.

7. External Influences

• The influence of extended family or social circles might contribute to how a parent perceives and treats each child.

Conclusion

Each parent-child relationship is unique, and the dynamics can be influenced by a variety of psychological, social, and emotional factors. Open communication and awareness can help address these disparities and promote a more equitable family environment.

Accidental or deliberate treatment?