News, How grandmas may play favorites. (parents, kids, old, child)

[John1960]

The question is asked in every language, in every era: "So, dear, when will you give me grandchildren?" Darwin would approve. (Click here to follow Sharon Begley)

At least he would if the "grandma hypothesis" is right. According to this idea, the reason women—uniquely among primates—outlive their child-bearing years is that a female who survives past menopause can contribute to the care of her children's children, improving their chances of reaching adulthood.

How Grandmas May Give Kids an Evolutionary Edge | Newsweek Voices - Sharon Begley | Newsweek.com

[CArizona]

There was no doubt about it...I was definitely my Grandma's favorite grandchild when I was young. But all it did was cause my aunts and uncles to resent me...My Grandma always denied that I was her favorite and she got mad at me for insinuating that she played favorites but it was true. I didn't want to stick out and have others resent me...I wanted to live in a family where there was enough love to go around for everybody....Were you a favorite too...or did you feel ignored?

[NoExcuses]

It is extremely difficult for a child to grow up knowing they aren't the favorite of their parents, but when grandparents play favorites, it's absolutely crushing for a child.

[Crazymomof3]

No Excuses, you are absolutely right...it stays with you through adulthood even. It's hurtful in many ways.

[CArizona]

It's sad when the adults in a family act like little kids.....Sad that children get caught in the middle of old feuds and grow up feeling rejected and unloved.

[mcatp]

I was lucky. Only child of an only child. I was the favorite and always knew it.

[GloryB]

I spend a whole lot more time with the grandson from my daughter than the other two grandchildren from my oldest son. Therefore, I really do end up buying him more stuff and we do more things together. I never thought of him as a 'favorite'....but I can see where it may appear that way to my son. Maybe I need to make a phone call.......................I wouldn't want him to think that way.