Is it OK to love your child more than your spouse?
Christopher Snyder
Updated on February 26, 2026
Unfortunately, from
helicopter parenting
A helicopter parent (also called a cosseting parent or simply a cosseter) is a parent who pays extremely close attention to a child's or children's experiences and problems, particularly at educational institutions.
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Should spouse or child come first?
In a marriage with children, it may seem counterintuitive to not put the kids first, says psychologist Yvonne Thomas. "However, it's actually healthier to make your spouse the first priority." This is because it benefits all of your family members.Is it normal to love your child so much?
While raising babies, parents must remember that there is no such thing as too much affection, too much attention, or too much care. In fact, research proves that parenting is one aspect of adult life when doing things in excess is actually encouraged.Can a mother love one child more than the other?
It is absolutely normal," says psychologist Ellen Weber Libby, author of "The Favorite Child." She also says that parents change their favorites at times. Stacy, of Los Angeles has a 5-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter, "I completely favor my son. He is just so much easier, sweeter, and affectionate.Does a mother love her child more than the father?
Research indicates that moms still spend twice as much time caring for kids as do dads. The amount of time that dads spend with their children is the main reason why children love more than Dad, but including this, there are also some other reasons for Excessive Attachment of a Mother.Why You Should Love Your Spouse More Than Your Kids
Which parent has the most influence on a child?
Mothers Remain the Dominant InfluenceThe most recent numbers show 28% of adult children saying their father was the more influential parent, compared to 22% in 1951. Even so, both in 1951 and presently, Americans continue to be more likely to say that mothers were the dominant influence in their lives.
Why does a child prefer one parent?
It's not uncommon for children to prefer one parent over the other. Sometimes this is due to a change in the parenting roles: a move, a new job, bedrest, separation. During these transitions, parents may shift who does bedtime, who gets breakfast, or who is in charge of daycare pickup.Is it normal to have a favorite child?
So you can rest assured that this is actually a very common and totally “normal” experience. Research confirms it: In a 2016 study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, 75 percent of mothers admitted to feeling closer to one child (and 70 percent of fathers said the same).Which child is usually favorite?
Most parents would claim that they do not have a favourite child, but a new study – conducted by more than 1,000 parents across websites Mumsnet and Gransnet– begs to differ. The survey concluded that parents tend to favour their youngest child over the elder.Do people love their first child more?
A research has put to rest all this confusion and shown how parents favour one child over the other. According to a study published by the Journal of Marriage and Family, 75 per cent of mothers report feeling closer to the eldest child, her first born.Can you say I love you too much to a child?
But it is the healthiest way to raise a child into healthy adulthood. Never say it if it's tied to a performance or something a child has done – it shouldn't be connected to praise. For example, “You did so great on this spelling test! I love you so much.” That's a no-no.Can a parent be too loving?
Briefly stated, the article argues that parents can love too much, nurture too much, and protect too much. The result of this overly fastidious parenting is that in young adulthood the "overly nurtured" kids are not prepared for the sometimes harsh realities of life.Can you be too obsessed with your baby?
It's not that uncommon to have intrusive thoughts after having a baby, but if you're exhibiting signs of postpartum OCD, it's time to get help.Who comes first in a man's life?
1. GOD-The reason God has to come first is because He has to be first in our lives. The Word says there shall be no other gods before Him.What priority should your spouse be?
Putting your partner first means his or her needs, feelings, and wellbeing take priority over other people or things. A “sense of we” forms as you maintain this priority on purpose each day. You protect your relationship from being destroyed or damaged. You tend to your connection so it feels good to you both.Who comes first wife or child in the Bible?
Considering all things the Bible teaches that a wife's primary responsibility is to God first and then her husband and then children all others follow.How do you know if you are the least favorite child?
Feelings of Least Favorite Children in AdulthoodAnger and disappointment. Feeling less accomplished compared to your favored sibling. Being withdrawn from your sibling. Conflict with your sibling.