Middle Child Day: What is Middle Child Syndrome?

Every year on August 12, National Middle Child Day is celebrated in countries around the world. This day honours middle children, who could often feel like their position has presented some challenges. The first born in the family is often the leader with a strong personality. The youngest child is considered the “babyâ€� for most of its life, receiving a great deal of attention. It can be hard being a middle child for a number of reasons and presents the issues associated with ‘middle child syndrome’.

It is important to remember that not all middle children will experience these issues, and nothing is concrete. However, if you are a parent it can be advisable to be aware of the concerns associated with ‘middle child syndrome’ as a means of ensuring your middle child feels the same love and attention as your other children.

A Middle Child Often Feels Ignored

The eldest child gets all the firsts and the resultant
attention. The younger child gets the protection of the parents in their role
as the baby of the family. The middle child accomplishments and needs are
often ignored and he ends up with no clearly defined role. The middle child
feels they must live up to the older sibling while being as cute as their
younger one.

Being a Middle Child Affects Family Relationships

Birth order can have a major effect on a child’s experience
in their family. Since the middle child has to compete for attention, they may
resort to inappropriate behaviour to elicit a parental response. Additionally,
insecurity and jealousy may develop. When the middle child does not get the
same attention as his younger and older siblings for his accomplishments,
resentment can lead to angry outbursts
against family members.

Being a Middle Child Affects One’s Personality

Every child is different. However certain personality
characteristics often surface with the middle child. What is referred to as the
“Middle Child Syndrome� impacts both positive and negative personality traits.

Alternatively, since middle children often receive less
attention and experience less interaction, they may end up introverted with
underdeveloped social skills and low self-esteem.

Being a Middle Child Can Affect Life Choices

Since parents often pay more attention to the oldest child
who is having new experiences, and the youngest, needing more help, the middle
child can end up getting less nurturing. The result is a feeling they lack
competency in some areas. The middle child may feel they lack effectiveness and
be hesitant in making decisions and have trouble setting and achieving goals.

The effect of being a middle child can last into adulthood.
The middle child’s lack of self-confidence may lead to indecision in making
life choices such as career, selection of a partner, and disciplining their own
children.

Middle Child Day gives special recognition to the middle
child or children in a family. Compared to the first and last born child, the
middle child has challenges when it comes to getting the attention of parents.
Although it’s hard being the middle child, ultimately the child assuming this
position develops some unique and often positive personality traits and family
relationships. Rejoice in being or having a middle child on Middle Child Day
this August 11 and every day of the year.