Perceptions of caregivers regarding factors that perpetuate differential parenting in Katlehong, Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Caregivers hold different attitudes and feelings towards their children. Consequently, interactions between caregivers and their children differ from child to child, thereby perpetuating differential parenting. The act of favouring one child over the other is regarded as differential parenting, and it causes animosity between siblings, parents and within the entire family. This study explored the views of caregivers concerning factors that instigate differential parenting in Katlehong, Johannesburg. The study was qualitative in nature and an exploratory design was employed in the study. Asnowball sampling technique was utilised and one-onone interviews were conducted to gather data. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to guide the interviews. Findings indicated that differential parenting is an unequal treatment of children, and that, it is perpetuated by a number of factors including behaviours of children and the socio-economic status of the family. The study proved that differential parenting has more negative effects than positive, as such caregivers need to be equipped with skills on parenting.