Exploring Relationship in “Parental Differential Treatment”, Empathy and Sibling Relationship
Xiaolu Ye
Ph.D, Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia, & Assoc. Prof., Zhejiang Industry & Trade Vocational College, 325000, No. 717, Fudong Road, Lucheng District, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China.Nor Aniza Ahmad
Ph.D, Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.Nur Aimi Nasuha Binti Burhanuddin
Senior lecturer, Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.Abstract
The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between sibling interactions, empathy, and "Parental Differential Treatment" (PDT). The study investigates how PDT influences "Sibling Relationships" and the moderating role of empathy in this context. Using the Sibling Relationship Questionnaire (SRQ), a standardised self-report survey designed to measure siblings' empathy, perceived parental affection, and differential treatment, quantitative data were collected from 100 participants. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between sibling empathy and PDT, as well as the quality of sibling relationships. Mediation analysis reveals that individuals with higher levels of empathy are less affected by PDT in their "Sibling Relationships," with empathy serving as a mediating factor between PDT and sibling dynamics. These results underscore the importance of equitable parental behaviour and the fostering of empathy within families for improving "Sibling Relationships." The findings highlight the critical role of empathy in parenting and advocate for strategies to minimise perceptions of favouritism. To address gaps in understanding family dynamics, future research should explore these interactions across different historical periods and cultural settings. This study contributes to the field of family psychology by elucidating how PDT and empathy influence sibling communication and overall family cohesion.