Summer picks: what does the science say about birth order and personality?
Aug 20, 2024
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Dr. Julia Rohrer, a personality psychologist from the University of Leipzig, dives into the science behind birth order and its effects on personality. She unpacks the familiar stereotypes of siblings, revealing that firstborns may lean toward leadership roles while younger siblings often find their niche in creative fields. The discussion also touches on how sibling dynamics, influenced by gender, can shape personal choices and careers. Ultimately, Rohrer emphasizes that while birth order can play a role, individual experiences vary widely.
Research indicates birth order has minimal impact on personality traits, challenging traditional stereotypes about siblings' roles and characteristics.
Career choices and life outcomes may be influenced by birth order, reflecting societal expectations rather than inherent personality differences.
Deep dives
The Influence of Birth Order on Personality Traits
Research on birth order suggests that it may not have a significant impact on personality traits as previously believed. Many traditional stereotypes indicate that firstborns are more responsible and driven, while later-born siblings are perceived as more creative and easygoing. However, studies indicate that when analyzing personality traits—specifically within the framework of the Big Five—there is little correlation between birth order position and personality differences. The only notable finding suggests that firstborns may score slightly higher on measures of intelligence, though this does not universally determine individual outcomes, as many later-born siblings can also exhibit high intelligence.
Social Roles and Career Outcomes
Despite the lack of significant personality differences, birth order may influence career choices and life outcomes. Studies from Sweden indicate that firstborns are more likely to pursue careers in management, engineering, or medicine, while younger siblings are often associated with arts and journalism. This may reflect societal expectations and cultural roles rather than inherent personality traits, as societal norms and pressures can shape the aspirations and opportunities afforded to each birth position. The impact of these roles may vary across different cultures, suggesting that these observations are context-dependent rather than universal truths.
The Persistence of Birth Order Myths
The enduring beliefs about birth order impact on personality likely stem from people's desire to understand their own behaviors and familial relationships. Despite evidence that broadly debunks these myths, many still identify with the stereotypes associated with their position within the family. This resonance may lead individuals to conform to expected behaviors, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy regarding personality traits. Recognizing that personality is context-dependent and can be shaped by various factors beyond birth order is essential, as each individual brings unique qualities to their familial and social environments.
We all know the cliches about older siblings being responsible, younger ones creative, and middle children being peacemakers. But is there any evidence our position in the family affects our personality? In this episode from March 2024, Madeleine Finlay meets Dr Julia Rohrer, a personality psychologist at the University of Leipzig, to unpick the science behind birth order. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
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