Perceived Inequality Between Biological and Adopted Siblings and Behavioral Problems Among Adopted Children: The Mediating Role of Emotional Insecurity

This study examined the relationships of perceived parental differential treatment (PPDT) with emotional insecurity (EI), aggressive tendencies (AT), and oppositional behaviors (OB) among 712 adopted children aged 10–17 years living with adoptive families in Lahore, Pakistan. Using self-report scales, data were analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM). Results indicated that PPDT had significant direct associations with EI, AT, and OB, and EI mediated the relationships between PPDT and both externalizing behaviors. Findings highlight the critical role of emotional security in shaping behavioral outcomes and underscore the importance of equitable and supportive parenting in promoting psychosocial adjustment of adopted children.