Stuff You Should Know – Birth Order: So nice, we did it twice

Intro

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck explore the fascinating topic of birth order. They discuss the stereotypes associated with different birth orders and the historical context of birth order research. Join them as they delve into the science and myths surrounding birth order and its impact on personality development.

Main Takeaways

Birth Order Stereotypes

• First-born children are often seen as bossy, overachievers, and perfectionists.
• Middle children or second-borns are often seen as peacemakers and people pleasers.
• Youngest children are often seen as spoiled brats but may also be adventurous.
• Only children often resemble first-born children but are a weirder version.

Historical Perspectives on Birth Order

• Birth order has been presented scientifically, refuted, and then presented again throughout history.
• Francis Galton conducted research on birth order and found that a majority of members of the Royal Society were among the oldest in their family.
• Galton concluded that eldest sons have advantages in nurture and independence of character.
• Alfred Adler’s ideas on birth order are a part of modern psychology.
• Adler believed that social interactions early in life shape our individual psychology.

Debunking Birth Order Myths

• Theories about birth order and personality were commonly accepted from the 1920s to the 1980s.
• Swiss psychologists Jules Anxth and Cecil Ernst wrote a book in 1983 debunking these theories.
• Psychologist Frank Sulloway’s book, “Born to Rebel,” re-popularized the idea of birth order’s influence on personality.
• Harris believed that parents have the least influence on kids’ personalities, while genes and peers have a greater impact.
• Birth order studies only provide a snapshot in time and may not account for other factors that influence personality and development.

Birth Order and Personality Traits

• Birth order plays a significant role in a person’s development and personality.
• Oldest children have an advantage due to increased responsibility and independence.
• Middle children may feel neglected and may develop a sense of unfairness in life.
• Youngest children may be more adventurous due to lower expectations.
• Only children receive all their parents’ attention and remain the center of attention.

Summary

Birth Order Stereotypes

Birth order stereotypes have long been ingrained in our society. First-born children are often seen as natural leaders and high achievers, while middle children are known for their peacemaking skills. Youngest children are often labeled as spoiled, but they may also be more adventurous. Only children, on the other hand, share many traits with first-borns but can have their own unique quirks.

Historical Perspectives on Birth Order

Throughout history, birth order has been a topic of scientific inquiry and debate. Francis Galton’s research on birth order in the Royal Society suggested that eldest sons had advantages in character development. Alfred Adler, a prominent psychologist, believed that birth order played a significant role in shaping individual psychology. However, later studies and criticisms have challenged the validity of these theories.

Debunking Birth Order Myths

From the 1920s to the 1980s, theories linking birth order to personality traits were widely accepted. However, Swiss psychologists Jules Anxth and Cecil Ernst’s book debunked these theories, highlighting methodological pitfalls and fallacies in previous studies. Psychologist Frank Sulloway’s book, “Born to Rebel,” reignited interest in birth order’s influence on personality. However, psychologist Judith Rich Harris argued that parents have minimal influence on their children’s personalities compared to genes and peers.

Birth Order and Personality Traits

Despite the debates and debunking of birth order theories, birth order still plays a role in shaping personality traits. Oldest children tend to be responsible and independent, while middle children may feel neglected and develop a sense of unfairness. Youngest children often embrace adventure due to lower expectations, and only children receive undivided attention from their parents. Birth order can be seen as a scientific explanation for personality differences, similar to astrological signs.

Conclusion

Birth order undoubtedly influences personality and behavior, but it is just one of many factors at play. While stereotypes associated with birth order persist, the scientific validity of birth order theories remains contested. Understanding birth order can provide insights into family dynamics and individual psychology, but it should not be viewed as the sole determinant of personality.