5 myths about only children

In the old days, when families lived largely in the countryside, did each extra child also mean more help to parents? whether on the farm or on the housework - did couples often have? litters? much larger than today. With the reality of big cities and the busy daily life that most families have today, the number of children decreases considerably? and it is increasingly common to find couples who choose to have only one shoot.

Far beyond a socioeconomic and even cultural requirement, having an only child is a big responsibility. Lauren Sandler, author of the book? One and only: the freedom of having an only child and the joy of being one? ? something like? Just one: the freedom to have an only child and the joy of being one? - argues that children raised without siblings are no different from other children, and highlights some myths on the subject that need to be broken.

1 ? Only children are very alone

According to Sandler, this is not true. "Only children are not alone or at least no more alone than other people," he says, explaining that each phase of life has its moments of loneliness for anyone? whether she is an only child or not.

2 ? Only children are selfish

There is no reason to believe that just by not having siblings, the child will become more selfish. The author, who is also an only child, believes that only children have even deeper and more generous friendships than people who live with their brothers.

3? Only children are spoiled

It all depends on the parent's willingness to raise their child. Being spoiled or not is a matter that involves more paternal conduct than the existence of siblings. A child raised alone will not necessarily be more spoiled than the others if their parents try hard not to give them everything they ask for.

4? Only children are antisocial

There is no reason, according to Sandler, to believe that a child without siblings will have more trouble socializing than others. Whether during childhood or adulthood, only children will encounter the same difficulties as anyone else to make friends. "All available data show us that once the child goes to school, he will be socializing," says the author.

5? Only children don't know how to work in groups

As long as parents, as educators, are willing to make the child understand the importance of teamwork, they are likely to grow up understanding the concept. That she learns how to deal with other people, consider the opinions of others, and decide which groups are most convenient for her does not depend solely on living with siblings at home.

The truth, according to Sandler, is that you cannot judge an only child by this family trait. Being an only child, as well as not being, does not mean that the child will have this or that personality trait specifically. It will all depend on how this person will be brought up and the experiences they will have during their lifetime. In the end, is each individual a unique being? and should be viewed as such.

'Only Children' Myths (May 2024)