Only children and last borns are likely to be less overpowering as a parent like an oldest. If a child is the last born, he or she may enjoy playing with their children more than most parents do. (Richardson 27-28).

             The relationship between the first child and parents can never be duplicated. It is filled with the awe and wonder of having brought into the world this little being, the focus of the parent's dreams and hopes. Even if the later children become more favoured by the parents, the relationship is usually not as intense as with the first child. (Richardson 44).

             The parents pay close attention to everything that happens with the first baby - the first smile, word, and the first step are all exclaimed over, celebrated, and recorded in the baby book. These feelings about the oldest child's accomplishments can go on for life, through graduation, marriage, birth, and so on. As a result of all this love and attention, first borns have many distinctive characteristics. These characteristics include; the desire to always be right and therefore first borns find it difficult to say "no" and "I don't know". They are motivated toward achievement and so they are hard workers and task oriented. First borns are serious and responsible and seen as very nurturing. (Adams/ Anonymous 1).

             It has been generalized that many oldest children have unhappy marriages. This is because spouses often find them impatient and demanding. "Oldests tend to believe in the importance of marriage and want to stay married no matter what. If the marriage ends, they are prone to strong feelings of failure and guilt" (Richardson 45). The most common problem is how oldest children find it most comfortable to take charge and be bossy since that is how they have been all their lives. (Richardson 56).

             "Oldests usually want to have children and are responsible parents. They may be very nurturing and loving and crave the respect of their children.