People often label or stereotype only children as bratty or spoiled, but this is far from the truth. Those who are used to growing up as an only child often develop unique behaviors and traits that differ from those with siblings. From how they adapt with other kids to how they deal with their own personal interests, here are seven common traits of an only child you may notice.
Independent Mindset
Likely the most common trait of an only child you’ll notice is their independent mindset. Growing up without siblings, these kids are used to having all the attention of their parents and parental figures and may be more comfortable thinking for themselves. They are great problem solvers and are more likely to find their own solutions without the help of someone else. This results in an independent attitude and outlook on life, a great skill to have as they grow older.
Love of Alone Time
Most only children have a love of alone time. Not only do they not have to deal with the demanding schedules that come with having siblings, but they’re used to getting all the time they need to obsess over their interests and hobbies. This also means they’re comfortable and content in their own company, not feeling out of place when spending quality time alone.
Ability to Keep Their Rooms Clean
Growing up with all the freedom and attention of being an only child tends to mean they’re very organized and clean. They’re able to keep their rooms and belongings neat without having siblings to mess around with everything. Being alone also means they’re more likely to take responsibility and care for all their own possessions.
Strong Emotional Bond with their Parents
Having all the love and attention from their parents that only children get often leads to them having a strong emotional bond with them. Not having to compete for attention with siblings can lead to only children having a more close relationship with their parents, relying and trusting them more than other kids might.
Introverted
As spending so much quality time alone, only children tend to be naturally introverted and shy. When spending time with other kids, it can be hard for them to get out their shell or open up to others. Growing up as an only child can mean they have less practice in socializing and forming bonds with other people, personality traits that only develop when interacting with those outside of their family.
Friendship Issues
Being so used to being the only child of their family and not having to deal with competition for attention and love can mean only children sometimes find it difficult to adjust to other types of relationships and friendships. They can be intimidated by others and have difficulty showing affection to those outside of their family.
Adaptability
Despite any difficulty they may have in forming friendships and relationships, being an only child can be beneficial too. Due to having spent so much alone time, they ’re experienced in adapting different environments quickly, meaning they can adjust easily to new people or situations just as easily as they do growing up alone. They have a “go with the flow” type of attitude which makes them easier to be around.
The above mentioned traits of an only child are only a few, as each individual is different and unique in their own way. That being said, it is true that being without siblings can affect how you are around other people and even how you view life. Despite any difficulties of being an only child, it can be incredibly rewarding and influential to how you grow up, too.
