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What Is Only Child Syndrome?
Has anyone ever called you selfish or spoiled because youre an only child?
Being an only child is often associated with a number of characteristicssome negative, and some positive.
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Only child syndrome was first introduced by psychologists in the 1800s.
However, recent research suggests that this theory may not necessarily be accurate.
Since they dont havesiblingsto interact with, only children are believed to be lonely and poorly socialized.
Positive Characteristics Attributed to Only Children
This theory attributes many positive traits to only children as well.
Is Only Child Syndrome Real?
The only child syndrome theory was proposed by psychologists in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
This recommendation was based on the work of two other influential psychologists of that era, namelyG.
In the second half of the 20th century, research disputing the only child syndrome theory started to emerge.
These are some of the implications of the theory.
Stereotyping Only Children
This theory can cause people to unfairlystereotypeonly children.
Some only children may happen to be shy, timid, independent, or self-absorbed.
However, its not necessarily because they grew up without siblings.
And it certainly doesnt mean that all only children are that way.
Or even that children who have siblings wont have those traits.
Altering Family Planning
This theory also affects how we think about family planning.
Those who choose not to have a second child may often be criticized for their decision.
Michigan State University.Myths and facts of being an only child.
Bohannon EW.The only child in a family.The Pedagogical Seminary.
1898;5(4):475-496. doi:10.1080/08919402.1898.10534031
JSTOR.Not so lonely: Busting the myth of the only child.
2021;8(7):605. doi:10.3390/children8070605
