The birth order, such as first, second, third, and only children, is considered to affect someone's personality. This is based on a theory developed by the Austrian psychotherapist Alfred Adler.

Early in the 20th century, this theory—known as ‘birth order’—was established. According to birth order theory, factors such as a child's relative position in the family, the number of siblings they have, and the order in which they were born can shape their character and future potential. Is that statement correct? Please read the article below.

Personality of the Eldest Child

According to Adler's theory, firstborn children typically receive greater attention and time from parents due to the parents' initial experience with raising children.

Due to the fact that parents are still in the process of learning how to parent, they may, at times, be more cautious, strict, and rule-oriented. The first child usually belongs to higher standards within the family so that he may serve as a good example for his siblings. They may feel that their parents are focusing more on their siblings.

According to this concept, the personality of the first child (eldest child) is shaped through the allocation of attention and time in the following ways:

• Desire power and leadership.
• Attentive and cautious.
• Perfectionist
• Reliable
• Achieve accomplishments
• Always well-organized
• Responsible
• Mature

Personality of the Middle Child

Family mediators are usually the second or middle child. Occasionally, they are situated between the eldest and youngest child, thereby necessitating their struggle for attention and place.

According to theory, middle children may be competitive or rebellious, yet they may also be calm and compromise with family. A child may look for acceptance from friends and social life if they feel their siblings are always overshadowing them.

According to the birth order theory, middle children generally show a range of characteristics, such as:

• Independent
• Mediator
• Satisfying others
• Friendly
• Adaptable
• Desires attention
• Jealousy
• Insecure

According to several studies, the second child tends to be more sensitive to rejection. The lack of attention they receive compared to their older siblings could be the cause of this. These factors might cause insecurity, rejection anxiety, and a lack of confidence.

Read more: It Is Said That The Second Child Tends To Be More Stubborn, Is That True?

Personality of the Youngest Child

Many of the youngest children, according to Adler, are the "babies" of the family. They are generally the center of attention, and their every desire is granted. This may encourage the youngest children to stop being "babies" and begin setting goals for their future. However, some children lack self-confidence or ambition.

The youngest child's personality includes:

• Friendly
• Enjoys fun
• Captivating
• Free-spirited
• Immature
• Selfish
• Manipulative.
• Dependent
• Brave to take the risk

Read more: Get To Know What Helicopter Parenting Is And Its Impact On Children's Development

Personality of the Only Child

According to Adler, only children often get complete parental attention, allowing them to feel pampered like the youngest child. They don't have to share attention with siblings and are overprotected, causing them to be dependent on their parents.

Due to the absence of young children in the family, only children tend to act like adults and are referred to as "little adults." 

Because they don't share parental attention and resources with siblings, only children are unique. In many aspects, his character has similarities to that of the eldest child, including:

• Mature
• Diligent
• Full of consideration
• Perfectionist
• Achieve accomplishments
• Imaginative
• Independent
• Sensitive

Birth order theory may sound familiar, but research reveals that parenting, family environment, and life experiences have a greater impact on a person's development and personality. Therefore, that birth order shouldn't become a separating stereotype.

Parenting style affects a child's personality development. Talk to a doctor or psychologist about parenting styles that fit your needs and conditions.

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