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The theory of "only child syndrome" suggests that children without siblings may lack social skills and be spoiled, lonely, or selfish. This stereotype originated from a 19th-century survey by E. W. Bohannon, where most respondents described only children as excessively spoiled. This idea persisted in pop psychology until Toni Folbo's 1986 survey, which found no significant differences between only children and those with siblings, except for a stronger bond with parents. A 2018 study confirmed this finding.
However, the internet is ablaze with opinions on distinct traits that often reveal whether someone grew up with or without siblings. From surprising common traits to the more quirky signs, we’ve compiled the 30 most common ways to spot that someone is an only child. Click to browse and see if you can relate!
Without siblings to compare themselves to, only children often develop a strong sense of who they are from an early age.
When their parents were busy, only children learned to entertain themselves by creating play scenarios, fixing broken toys, and cooking simple meals. This resourcefulness usually continues into adulthood.
They're great with other people's parents because they grew up chatting with adults.
They are more likely to take things personally and react emotionally.
Only children may avoid unnecessary socializing as they have been brought up to be used to their own company.
Without siblings to share life's ups and downs with, only children often form deep and meaningful friendships, creating bonds that can be as strong as family ties.
They can argue their way out of anything due to years of practicing on their parents as the sole defendant.
Only children often dislike being micromanaged because it can make them feel like their parents don't trust their abilities or judgment.
Only children are used to getting their own way.
They take 45-minute showers or long relaxing baths; blissfully unaware that siblings might have protested long ago.
They look genuinely baffled when asked to "share" fries. What does that even mean?
They're either the loudest in the group or the quietest.
Only children report a more positive relationship with their parents. This is true in childhood as well as in adulthood.
They eat their food leisurely (because no one will steal it).
They are more likely to be independent, self-reliant, and comfortable making decisions on their own.
They leave their Halloween candy in the kitchen. What's the risk?
Only children don't have the same perspective of "personal space" as people with siblings. They can hog draws, closet space, etc.
They are self-sufficient and can do jobs that should take two to three people by themselves. Moving furniture and appliances etc. Growing up as an only child can foster a problem-solving mindset.
They talk to themselves...a lot.
Being the sole focus of parental attention can often translate into high expectations. Many only children grow up feeling a strong pressure to succeed.
Their roughhousing skills are below par.
If you cut a cake in two, they can't immediately tell you which one is the bigger half.
Only children might experience challenges in adapting to group dynamics.
Without siblings to tease them, only children might be more sensitive to criticism and teasing.
Only children can get unreasonably angry about group punishments because they often value fairness and individual responsibility. When they are punished for someone else's mistake, it can feel unjust and frustrating, leading to anger and resentment.
Only children often have trouble negotiating. They're used to getting what they want and never had to cut deals with their siblings for the TV remote!
Sources: (Lifebulb) (Reddit) (Yahoo) (BuzzFeed) (Research Addict)
See also: The pros and cons of being an only child
Personality traits that reveal an only child
The distinctive characteristics of growing up solo
LIFESTYLE Personality
The theory of "only child syndrome" suggests that children without siblings may lack social skills and be spoiled, lonely, or selfish. This stereotype originated from a 19th-century survey by E. W. Bohannon, where most respondents described only children as excessively spoiled. This idea persisted in pop psychology until Toni Folbo's 1986 survey, which found no significant differences between only children and those with siblings, except for a stronger bond with parents. A 2018 study confirmed this finding.
However, the internet is ablaze with opinions on distinct traits that often reveal whether someone grew up with or without siblings. From surprising common traits to the more quirky signs, we’ve compiled the 30 most common ways to spot that someone is an only child. Click to browse and see if you can relate!