Posted by Rach on May 31, 2001, at 6:24:10
In reply to Re: time-out Birth order?, posted by Greg on May 30, 2001, at 21:10:19
Wow, I wish! I'm a middle child. Older brother, baby sister. As I said, I wish I had the traits of your sister, Greg.
As far as I know, "middle child syndrome" includes low self-esteem because of a lack of unique status (i.e. firstborn and lastborn children get status, recognition, and attention that middleborns may not receive), and the belief that life isn't fair because the oldest sibling may have "all the rights" and the youngest "all the privileges.
I can understand that! And I am definately the peace maker in the family. But, I was also the one to be picked on all the time because my bro & sis would join forces and gang up on me!
> Willow,
>
> I've got to join the "baby of the bunch" group. My oldest sibling and I have always been somewhat unmotivated and irresponsible (both alcoholics, I'm 13 years sober, she still drinks). I have improved in my responsibility with age (and sobriety I'm sure), but still have some growing up to do. I can be very controlling and manipulative when it suits my purpose, but I'm generally pretty easy to get along with.
>
> The middle child in the family (also female) is the organizational monster. Her house is always immaculate, yards perfectly groomed, laundry is always done, dinner on the table at the same time every night. She has a list for everything she'll do during the day and the lists are usually done days in advance. No one is ever hired to do repairs on her home, if she can't do it herself; she gets someone to teach her. All the family functions are held at her home. She's handled every funeral arrangement we've ever had. She reminds me of the Energizer Bunny... And she's never had a drinking or drug problem. I don't know that she tries to control others, but she certainly keeps her own world in check.
>
> I think you're first born theory is probably very valid, but there are always exceptions. My middle sister and I are definitely polar opposites.
>
> BTW, how is your Dad doing? Is the Zypreza still working out for him? I hope both of you are doing well.
>
> Greg
>
>
> > "Well, maybe the second time... Anyway, after giving this some more thought, I'd like to try to use "time-outs" more, as an "alternative sentence"."
> >
> > I was just thinking that the Boss (Bob) must be a first born. First borns usually need a little more control or like to control their environment more than later siblings.
> >
> > I'm the youngest. My brother use to always say the song by Cindy Lauper (sp) "Girls just want to have fun" described me. Suprisingly I married a first born, it's fun to try and get him to lighten up and he keeps me a little responsible.
> >
> > Does anyone agree with this theory?
> >
> > Willow
poster:Rach
thread:6233
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20010526/msgs/6248.html