Only Child Syndrome
- whereemotionsflow
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
Written By: Deetsie
INTRODUCTION
Only-child syndrome is a popular psychological term linking selfish or inconsiderate behavior to a lack of siblings. Many believe that only children do not know how to share or cooperate because they never had to learn, and that their parents gave them more because they had more time and resources. Being an only child can change the very development of your brain and produce different effects on everyone.
Other studies show that only children do better in school, are more highly motivated, and have higher self-esteem than those with siblings because they get more individual attention from parents and can receive immediate support when needed. On the other hand, some studies have shown that only children suffer. Siblings offer vital relationships and social training from a young age, meaning that Only Children may struggle to Keep up and may be less adjusted as they mature.
WHAT DOES THE BIRTH ORDER THEORY STATE?
Firstborns: Firstborns are thought of as responsible, reliable, cautious, achievement-oriented leaders and problem solvers. Adler's theory suggests that because firstborns tend to get the most attention from parents, a lot is expected of them, resulting in a deep sense of responsibility.
While not always accurate, middle children can feel ignored and lack confidence and, according to Adler's theory, have trouble sticking up for themselves or finding their place or role.
The youngest child: Being the youngest is thought to result in a somewhat coddled person. Adler's theory suggests the babies of the family are most likely to be spoiled, which can lead to self-centeredness.
First developed in the 1960s by psychotherapist Alfred Adler, the birth order theory outlines the characteristics of twins, only children, and oldest, middle, and youngest children. Only children tend to fall more into the "firstborn" camp of Adler's theory.
(Regan, July 19, 2021)
Independence
Independence is a big trait that only children tend to develop as adults. They learn to take care of things and learn how to be self-sufficient because there is no other choice. As an adult, they are often a self-starter, reliable, and able to handle and complete most tasks independently without needing or expecting additional help.
Better friends
Only children sometimes imagine what it would be like to have a sibling. Despite their enjoyment of independence, they still wonder. So essentially, their good friends are essential to them because they are their ‘siblings’ and their chosen family. Therefore, only children are often loyal and understanding, tend to be selfless, and are willing to go to the ends of the earth for those they love
Trustworthy
Since they were often in charge and functioned independently as a child, adult-only children tend to be reliable. They are usually focused on representing themselves and their families or caregivers, as this has been a constant, as such, keeping their commitments is integral. They can be counted on as adults, and when in need, they will be there for you.
High achievers
As an only child, the focus and attention is on them, which generally translates into not only a lot of focus and level of support in all needed areas (i.e., academic, social, athletic) from parents but also a desire, in many cases, to please. Therefore, only children tend to receive the help they need to succeed in school and have high goals for their future, especially when it is encouraged, a legacy or they are ‘the first.’ There's a lot of pressure, but it is a goal only children feel the need to live up to.
(Deering, June 23, 2024)
REFERENCES
Forsythe, F. (2019, June 1). Only Child Syndrome: Signs & Effects. Learning Mind.
Regan, S. (2021, July 19). Only Child Syndrome. MindBodyGreen.
Deering, S. (2024, June 23). Traits of People Who Grew Up as an Only Child, According to Psychologists. Parade.
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