5 Unique Facts About The Youngest Child, Are They Spoiled?
Casal dels Infants – The youngest child is typically known as the last-born in a family and is often considered the one most pampered by their parents. In many cases, youngest siblings tend to have a freer and more relaxed spirit because parents usually become more lenient in their parenting style over time.
But is it true that youngest siblings are always spoiled? Let’s explore these five interesting facts about the youngest child!
According to Parents, youngest siblings generally share several common personality traits, such as:
Although not all youngest siblings have these traits, people often associate them with family dynamics and their position as the youngest child.
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Based on the birth order theory introduced by Austrian psychotherapist Alfred Adler, youngest siblings usually strive to stand out among their older siblings to create a unique role within the family.
Youngest children often feel the need to catch up with or even compete with their older brothers and sisters. These feelings of inadequacy or being overlooked may push them to develop strong social intelligence. Youngest siblings are typically sociable, humorous, and skilled at creating a fun, lively atmosphere.
These traits not only help them gain attention within the family but also become valuable strengths in building relationships outside the home.
According to Kevin Leman, Ph.D., a psychologist who has studied birth order since 1967, youngest siblings often feel that their achievements are not as special as those of their older siblings.
“Parents no longer react with the same enthusiasm when the youngest child learns to talk, read, or ride a bike. Their accomplishments are seen as ordinary,” explained Dr. Leman.
Families often treat youngest siblings as the ‘baby’ of the family, even when they are grown up. Sometimes, youngest children use this role to manipulate others in order to get what they want.
Dr. Leman also noted that youngest siblings are usually the least likely to face strict discipline. Parents tend to be more lenient with the youngest child when it comes to responsibilities and rules, often applying more relaxed standards compared to their older children.
Interestingly, according to Mom Loves Best, youngest siblings are less likely to experience mental health issues. One reason for this is that they often receive emotional support from their older siblings.
This supportive relationship helps youngest children feel safer and more accepted. A warm and caring family environment plays a major role in building their self-confidence and emotional stability.
A 2018 study by Sandra E. Black, published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, found that youngest siblings, especially girls, tend to earn lower incomes compared to first-born children.
Youngest boys also tend to have lower earnings, although this does not necessarily mean they work part-time. This income gap is particularly noticeable in larger families, where educational and career achievements often differ significantly between the eldest and the youngest siblings.
Being the youngest child certainly comes with its own unique set of personality traits and challenges. Youngest siblings aren’t always spoiled; in fact, many grow into friendly, adaptable, and fun individuals.
If you’re a youngest sibling yourself, you probably know exactly what it feels like, right?
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