The Dethroned Prince Syndrome: what is it and how to prevent it?

Dethroned Prince Syndrome is a term used to describe the behavior of a child who, due to the arrival of a new sibling or for other reasons, experiences a sense of loss of status within the family. This syndrome occurs most frequently in children between the ages of 2 and 6, and can have an impact on their behavior and their relationship with other family members.

The term "prince" refers to the privileged position that many boys and girls have within the family before the arrival of a new sibling. These children often receive a great deal of attention and affection from their parents, and often have control over many of the family's decisions and activities. It is important that parents are aware and take steps to help prevent it.

• We recommend you read: "Jealousy between siblings: how to detect it and what can we do?"

How to prevent dethroned prince syndrome?

Here are some recommendations to help parents prevent dethroned prince syndrome:

1. Involve the child in preparing for the arrival of the new sibling

Allow the child to participate in choosing the baby's clothes, decorating the room, choosing toys, etc. This can help the child feel more connected and excited about the arrival.

2. Making sure the child has his time and space

It is important that the child has his time and space at home. Parents can set aside a specific time to spend time alone with the older child. This can include activities like reading together, playing a board game, or just talking.

3. Make the child feel involved

Involve the child in daily activities related to the baby, such as changing diapers or feeding. This can help the child feel part of the process and can help foster a positive relationship between siblings.

4. Foster a positive relationship between siblings

Parents can also encourage siblings to interact with each other and share their toys and games.

5. Communicate love and value for the older child

Parents need to make sure that the older child knows how much he is loved and valued. It is important to let the child know that the arrival of the new sibling does not mean that the love or attention is reduced.

6. Talk to the child before the arrival of the new brother

It is important that parents talk to the child about the arrival of the new sibling, explain to the child that his role as an older brother is important and that he will continue to be loved and valued. Encourage the child to ask questions and express her feelings about the arrival of the new sibling.

Can it occur in adults?

Some psychologists and experts in family relationships have pointed out that certain patterns of behaviors seen in Dethroned Prince Syndrome can also manifest in the adulthood in some familiar situations, although not necessarily under the same term. For example, in families where one member has been the center of attention for a long time and then a change occurs, such as a divorce or a move to another city, that member may feel "dethroned" and may manifest feelings of jealousy, anxiety or unsafety.

Similarly, in situations where an adult has been the primary caregiver for an elderly relative or sick and then a new caregiver is introduced into the family, the primary caregiver may feel devalued or replaced. Some cases where the Dethroned Prince syndrome can occur:

• When an adult feels replaced by a new family member: For example, after the wedding of a son or daughter, a father may feel that his role has been replaced by his son's spouse, and may experience jealousy, anxiety, or insecurity.

• When parents need child care: If an adult child becomes the primary caregiver for her aging parents, she may experience sadness or anger, especially if you feel that her role has replaced your previous relationship with your parents.

• When an adult feels excluded from family decisions: If a family member is not included in making important decisions, such as planning family reunions or managing family assets, you may feel devalued or ignored.

• When family roles suddenly change: For example, if a parent dies suddenly, family members may feel emotionally disturbed and may struggle to adjust to changes in their roles and relationships relatives.

In these cases, family members may benefit from the help of a mental health professional to overcome these feelings and improve the family relationship.