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  • Mawada Helal
    • Aug 26
    • 3 min read

The Influence of Birth Order on Personality Development

Imagine a family as a theatrical production. Each member plays a unique role in contributing to the overall dynamic. Some are natural leaders. others adapt to their surroundings. and some bring a touch of unexpected chaos. But what shapes these roles? Is there a script at play? These distinct personalities might not be random chance but influenced by the order of our curtain call (our birth order). This article explores the theory that birth order, just like an actor's entrance, can shape our personalities. 


The First script: a brief history of the theory


Austrian psychiatrist Alfred Adler in the early 20th century brought the theory into the spotlight.  He suggested that the order you are born into a family can influence your personality.


While all siblings share a family environment, Adler argued their experiences differ based on birth order. This, he proposed, leads to distinct personality traits and goals. He even suggested that your perceived role within the family might be more important than your actual birth order (meaning: somebody might be a middleborn but has the firstborn's common traits due to the way they were raised thus they can be considered firstborn!)


Act I: Setting the Stage with Adler's Birth Order Theory


  • Eldest child: In Adler's theory, firstborns are like the opening act in a play. They experience the undivided attention of their parents. This initial spotlight shapes them in two ways:

  1. The Leader: Firstborns often develop a strong sense of responsibility and a drive to achieve, striving to please their parents and maintain their star role. This can lead to leadership qualities and a desire for excellence.

  2. Dethroned Prince/Princess: However, the arrival of younger siblings can make them feel dethroned. This can lead to a fear of losing their parents' favour. This may explain their strive for perfection.


  • Middle children: In Adler's play, middle children are the wildcard characters. They enter the scene after the first act has established the rules. Middle children might feel:

  1. Overlooked: They are between the established "star" (firstborn) and the darling "newcomer" (youngest), middle children may struggle to carve out their calling.

  2. Independent and Adaptable: Needing to find their own space, middle children can develop strong negotiation and compromise skills in navigating family dynamics.


  • Youngest child: In Adler's theory, the youngest child is the grand finale. They arrive after the play is already in motion, bringing a fresh burst of energy:

  1. The Easygoing One: Having received more relaxed parenting and potentially more indulgence, some youngest children develop a carefree attitude. 

  2. Feeling Underestimated: Despite their charm and potential, youngest children might sometimes feel underestimated by older siblings or perceive themselves as needing to constantly prove themselves.


  • Only Children: In Adler's theory, only children are like solo performers. They take centre stage from the beginning, receiving the director's (parents') undivided attention throughout the entire play. This unique position cultivates some interesting traits:

  1. Mature for their Age: Engaging with adults from a young age, only children might mature quickly, exhibiting advanced social skills or intellectual curiosity.

  2. A difficulty compromising or working collaboratively: They are used to having their way with solving problems solo, they might struggle to adjust to situations requiring teamwork or considering others' perspectives.


This image tells us more about the characteristics of each child


Act II: Modern Research  


While a 2010 review suggested birth order significantly impacts personality, some argue this might be an oversimplification. Later analyses found limited evidence for this connection, with some studies showing only a slight intellectual advantage for firstborns. Research on broader personality traits like extroversion or agreeableness hasn't found a clear link to birth order. Overall, the theory might hold some truth for firstborns, but its broader applicability needs to be clarified due to limitations in the research.


The last Act


In conclusion, the influence of birth order on personality remains a topic of debate. While some studies suggest a connection, particularly for firstborn children, the overall effect appears weaker than originally proposed by Adler's theory. More research is needed to fully understand the interplay between birth order, family dynamics, and individual experiences in shaping who we become. It's likely a complex mix of factors, with birth order playing a role.


"The family is one of nature's masterpieces." - George Santayana.


Reference List


BetterHelp Editorial Team (2018). Birth Order Theory: Insights Into Your Personality | BetterHelp. [online] Betterhelp.com. Available at: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/family/birth-order-theory-insights-into-your-personality/ [Accessed 1 Jul. 2024].



Saya (2009). Birth Order Theory: How Birth Order Affects Your Personality. [online] Psych Central. Available at: https://psychcentral.com/blog/birth-order-and-personality [Accessed 1 Jul. 2024].

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