Being the oldest sibling may have its perks, but it also can feel like a burden at times.
Moreover, many firstborns struggle under the weight of the expectations put upon them.
On the other hand, younger siblings are usually more flexible, free-thinking, social, and rebellious.
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Again, though, the evidence to back up these claims are scant and not always consistent.
These potentially unhealthy boundaries can also impact relationships.
But simply being aware of these potential difficulties means that you are willing to face them.
It also shows that you are mindful of the impact that birth order can potentially have.
Our experts shared their best advice for how to navigate oldest child syndromefor both parents and oldest children themselves.
Still, sometimes life circumstances necessitate an older sibling having to step in and fulfill more parent-like roles.
There is no inevitability that this has to be a bad or problematic arrangement, Smith says.
Its more about how its structured and working to show similar value for each family member.
This is something that therapy can help with.
Depending on your age and circumstances, this might look like individual therapy or family counseling.
Damian RI, Roberts BW.Settling the debate on birth order and personality.
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Yates D.Massive study: Birth order has no meaningful effect on personality or IQ.
University of Illinois News Bureau.
