Photo credit: New York Post
Growing up as a single child can shape a person in unique ways.
This isn’t about stereotyping people; it’s just about recognizing patterns. It’s not a judgment; it’s an explanation.
It’s backed by research which shows certain behaviours are more common among those who grew up without siblings.
1. independent thinkers
Growing up without siblings often requires children to rely on their own company. This solitude can foster a strong sense of independence, and this trait usually carries on into adulthood.
Only children are frequently self-reliant. They’re used to figuring things out on their own without the help of a sibling. This can result in them being independent thinkers, unafraid to form opinions and make decisions.
This isn’t to say that all only children are reserved and introverted. But this independence means they’re often comfortable entertaining themselves and don’t rely heavily on others for simulation or affirmation.
2.Value for personal space
speaking from personal experience as an only child, I’ve always appreciated my own space.
Growing up without siblings meant I often had my own room, my own corner to retreat to whenever I needed it. This early exposure to having personal space often translates into adulthood.
Now, as an adult, I still have that instinctual need for my own space. It’s not about being antisocial or disliking company. It’s about having a place where I can recharge, reflect and just be by myself.
I’ve noticed this tendency among other only children too. We seem to understand and respect the concept of personal boundaries more because we grew up with a greater sense of individuality.
3. Only children often spend more time with grown-ups compared to those with siblings. This early exposure to adult conversation can lead to a maturity in communication skills.
Interestingly, a study by the Journal of Marriage and Family found that only children scored higher in verbal abilities and were more articulate than their counterparts with siblings.
4. High Achievers
There’s no denying the pressure of being the sole focus of parental attention. With no siblings to share te spotlight, only children feel the push to succeed.
In most cases, only children tend to be high achievers. They’re used to having all eyes on them and often feel a higher sense of responsibility, which can translate to a drive for success.
5. Deep connections
As an only child, your first friends are often your parents. This can result in a deep and meaningful bond that carries into adulthood.
Only children often have a special connection with their parents. They share experiences, conversations, and memories unique to their family dynamic.
These profound connections aren’t limited to family relationships. Only children can carry this capacity for deep relationships into their friendships and romantic relationships.
It’s not about quantity for them; it’s about quality. They might not have the widest social circle, but the connections they do have are likely to be deep and meaningful. So, if an only child lets you into their life, know it’s a place of trust and respect.
6. Dealing with loneliness
Growing up as an only child can sometimes feel lonely. A certain camaraderie and companionship comes with having siblings, and only children don’t get to experience that.
I remember those times when I wished for a sibling to share my joys and fears and even shift some of the attention away from myself. This feeling of loneliness can sometimes carry into adulthood.
But it’s not all negative. This attitude also teaches only children how to be comfortable with themselves. It helps them develop a strong sense of self and an ability to enjoy their own company.
So, if you’re an only child who’s felt the sting of loneliness, remember that it’s also helped shape you into the resilient individual you are today.
7. Adaptability
Only children often have to learn how to adapt to different circumstances. Since there are no siblings to lean on or play with, they often find themselves adjusting to various social settings and age groups.
This ability to adapt can prove incredibly beneficial in adulthood. It allows only children to navigate different social and professional environments with ease.
8. Strong sense of identity
The most significant trait you’ll often find in only children is a strong sense of identity. Growing up as the sole focus of their parents’ attention, they can get the opportunity to discover and express themselves without constant comparison to a sibling.
This self-awareness and understanding can lead to a robust sense of identity. They know who they are, what they like, and what they stand for.
So, if you meet an only child who seems secure in their skin, remember that it might be a product of their upbringing. Their time alone allowed them to know themselves deeply – a trait that’s as admirable as it is rare.
This article was first published in Global English Editing on September 4, 2024, by Graeme Richards.
