BIRTH ORDER

Psychologists have long studied how your birth order in the family lineup can influence everything from personality to career choices. Turns out, the stereotypes of birth order are alarmingly accurate.
– Firstborn: The mini-adult in training. Firstborns are often described as responsible, conscientious, and achievement-oriented – mostly because they had no choice. They are natural leaders with a strong sense of duty. They’re also often the “guinea pig” of the family, raised with all the rules and none of the chill. They usually turn out a little bossy.
– Middle child: The peacekeeper…or the mystery. The middle child has long been considered the wildcard of the family. Depending on how many siblings there are, they’re either the easygoing diplomat… or one who quietly disappears into the background and re-emerges years later a wild child – tattoos, motorcycles, questionable friends. Middles are often said to be adaptable, cooperative, and skilled negotiators — mostly because they grew up negotiating for space, snacks, and screen time between two louder siblings. They may not get the spotlight, but they usually get along with everyone.
– Youngest child: Outgoing, attention-seeking, and a little rebellious. They’re the free spirits of the family. Youngest children are more likely to take risks and pursue creative careers.
– The Only Child: They’re used to adult company, which often makes them articulate and confident… but also prone to perfectionism and the occasional meltdown. Only children tend to be high achievers, strong leaders, and pretty emotionally stable.
* Which one is most likely to bring me a beer?
* Okay – Now how do you get kids in any of these categories to do chores?
* So I should throw out my astrology chart?
* Do these stereotypes apply to twins? Firstborn and Youngest?
* PHONE TOPIC: Do you and your siblings follow these patterns?