Favoritism is one kind of status game. By giving someone preferential treatment, we become their favorite person and gain their likes.
It’s not uncommon to see favoritism in communities or groups. For people who play and receive favoritism, it might not feel like a big deal. However, when agreements and rules are not followed to satisfy personal gains, it costs trust to the whole.
Instead of playing favoritism, it helps to pause and consider: when I am doing this, what needs are met (for who)? What needs are not met (for who)?
Then the choice is obvious.
