Birth order has a definite affect on a child's development. How is it that two or more individuals have the same parents, live in the same house, and become completely different adults (Barrymore)? Birth order plays an important role in a child's personality development, career choices, and even intelligence. Parents unintentionally treat each child differently, based on their position in the family. The more children parents have the more relaxed they become with parenting.
             An only child tends to be spoiled by their over-protective parents. The child often has a hard time sharing and getting along with children his or her own age (Stein). The lack of competition in the family increases self-confidence, and allows the child to express him or herself more freely. The loneliness an only child feels is transformed into creativity. The child will entertain him or herself with solitary projects and learn more creative problem solving techniques. These children usually choose careers in advanced areas (Forer, 9).
             The oldest and first born obviously begins life as an only child, and develops much like an only child until the birth of a second child. Parents are usually over-protective of their first born child. The first born usually is competitive for attention and will lash out at the newborn sibling. The first born child is usually successful academically and pursues higher levels of education. This child feels that he or she has power over the younger siblings and assumes the authoritative position. This assumed position often causes problems among the siblings.
             The second born position is often considerate the hardest. The second born child is
             also trying to compete for the attention of parents. Second born children often times
             are better at maintaining relationships. He or she learns how to get along and negotiate with adults and children (Forer, 57).
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