- Sibling Relationships (Role models, supporters, mentors, members of a coalition)
- Sibling Roles (Playmates & companions, teachers & learners, protectors & dependents, adversaries, role models)
- Sibling Rivalry
Alfred Alder outlined a theory of social and emotional development that focused on birth order. His focus looked at the individual as a whole, as a funtioning entity, reacting to the envionrnment as well as physcial makeup. For infants, the environment centers on the family and the experience within it. Alder noted the following: (Taken from Psychology 30, Distance Ed Curriculum)
- Only child - Likes being the centre of adult attention. Often has difficulty sharing with peers. Prefers adult language. Is self reliant and confident.
- Oldest - May become authoritarian or strict. Feels power is their right. Can become helpful if encouraged. May turn to father after the birth of the next child. Becomes an achiever.
- Second - Is more competitive, wants to overtake the older child. May become a rebel or try to outdo everyone. Competition can deteriorate into rivalry. May enjoy challenges.
- Middle - May be even tempered, "take it or leave it" attitutde. May have trouble finding a place or become a fighter of injustice. May feel free to pursue interests.
- Youngest - Wants to be bigger than the others. May have huge plans that never work out. Can stay the 'baby'. Frequently spoiled. Enjoys socializing.
- Twin - Can have identity problems. Stronger one may become the leader. Have a close bond with each other.
