Today's Favoritism

Should Parents Talk About Having a Favorite Child?

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 -- 12:00 PM

Jeffrey Kluger, author of the TIME magazine article "Playing Favorites," thinks it's important for parents to discuss favoritism.

"Certainly when the kids address it directly, I still say with both of my daughters, no, no, we love you equally," says Kluger. "But I don't think there is anything wrong with saying what you may see as favoritism."

Laura Bennett, designer, author, and mother of six, agrees. "I think the people whose parents didn't talk about it seem more hurt by it. I think to acknowledge it is the healthiest thing, in my case."

Do you think parents should openly talk about having a favorite child? Is it healthy for parents to address the issue?

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Simmons Girls Disagree over Mom's Favorite

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 -- 11:11 AM

Vanessa Simmons tells Anderson her mom once said that daughter Angela is her favorite.

Angela and Vanessa have a difference of opinion...

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Kids Compete for Spot on 'Mom's Favorite' List

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 -- 10:21 AM

Laura Bennett, designer, author, and mother of six, says her children compete for a place on her favorite list.

"Truman has always been my favorite, yes, and most of the kids know that," says Bennett, whose book "Didn't I Feed You Yesterday," is a modern take on motherhood.

Surprised to hear this, Anderson asks, "You're kidding, right?"

"All humor is funny because it's based in truth, right?" says Bennett. Take a look at this moment from the studio...

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Mom Admits to Favoring One Child

Tuesday, October 18, -- 2011 8:00 AM

Jessica Katz is a mother of two young girls -- and she admits she plays favorites. Jessica says her first daughter is her favorite because everything was first and new with her. Can you relate to Jessica's story? Do you have a favorite? Learn more about Jessica's story and weigh-in on the favorite fight below...