Birth Order

Some parents may feel at a loss when they start having more than one child. The children may seem to differ in characteristics, temperament, and behaviors. Below is a list of different typical characteristics that you as a parent may be able to use for more understanding. Though theses do not always apply, they still maybe used as a guideline.

Only	Child Pampered and spoiled. Feels incompetent because adults are more capable. Is center of attention; often enjoys position. May feel special. Self-centered. Relies on service from others rather than own efforts Feels unfairly treated when doesn't get own way. May refuse to cooperate. Plays "divide and conquer" to get own way. _________________________________________________
First Child	Is only child for period of time; used to being center of attention. Believes must gain and hold superiority over other children. Being right, controlling often important. May respond to birth of second child by feeling unloved and neglected. Strives to keep or regain parents' attention through conformity. If this failed, chooses to misbehave. May develop competent, responsible behavior or become very discouraged. Sometime strives to protect and help others. Strives to please. __________________________________________________
Second Child	Never has parents' undivided attention. Always has sibling ahead who's more advanced. Acts as if in race, trying to catch up or overtake first child. If first child is "good," second may become "bad." Develops abilities first child doesn't exhibit. If first child successful, may feel uncertain of self and abilities. May be rebel. Often doesn't like position. Feels "squeezed" if third child is born. May push down other siblings. ___________________________________________________
Middle Child of Three	Has neither rights of oldest nor privileges of youngest. Feels life is unfair. Feels unloved, left out, "squeezed." Feels doesn't have place in family. Becomes discouraged and "problem child" or elevates self by pushing down other siblings. Is adaptable. Learns to deal with both oldest and youngest sibling. ___________________________________________________
Youngest Child	Behaves like only child. Feels every one bigger and more capable. Expects others to do things, make decisions, take responsibility. Feels smallest and weakest. May not be taken seriously. Becomes boss of family in getting service and own way. Develops feelings of inferiority or becomes "speeder" and  overtakes older siblings. Remains "The Baby." Places others in service. If youngest of three, often allies with oldest child against middle child.  Taken from http://www.childdevelopmentinfo.com/development/birth_order.shtml