The Bottom Line: Interesting facts about siblings.
The Full Story:
- Siblings between the ages of 3 and 7 fight an average of 3.5 times an hour. Poor mom and dad!
- You probably spend more time with your siblings than anyone else in your life.
- As children develop identities, they tend to de-identify. That is, they create their own identity in order to fill a spot that is missing in the family. Therefore, children who grow up with siblings of the opposite gender tend to adhere more closely to gender norms.
- Those who have siblings of the opposite gender tend to be more successful at dating. So thank your bro or sis!
- Kids who have siblings are, on average, one inch shorter. I’ll be taking that thank you back, please.
- Boys who have many older brothers are more likely to be gay. Research has shown that with every son, the chance goes up by 28-48%. Interestingly, the same cannot be said about sisters.
- Sixty-five percent of mothers and 70% of fathers exhibit a preference for one sibling over another. Talk to most sibs and they’ll tell you in a heartbeat who they believe their parents prefer. While most parents outwardly deny having a favorite child, studies have proven time and time again that this simply isn’t the case. Many, if not most parents have a favorite and kids are well aware of it. Research has shown that many non-favored siblings use this situation to their own advantage, but that it can be damaging in the long run to their self-esteem and confidence.
- Firstborns are generally smarter than the younger siblings, having on average, a three-point IQ advantage over the second sibling. It’s okay – we won’t tell if you won’t!