"Why You Are the Way You Are." (bit.ly/2B4pG5F)
Dr. Kevin Leman explains common traits of the four birth order positions: firstborn (perfectionistic, dependable, sensitive to criticism), middleborn (secretive, mentally tough, independent), lastborn (uncomplicated, vivacious, manipulative), and only born (self-motivated, fearful, cautious). Contrary to popular opinion, parents need to learn to parent each child differently. All families don’t fit neatly into a box of two parents and three children, so it’s important to account for variables such as gender and years apart in age. Sensitivity to birth order traits can also help employers pick the right person for a job. Knowing birth order can also be insightful when choosing a mate. “The smart person figures out how to navigate all birth orders,” says Leman.