Only children live with a certain stereotype of being selfish, immature, spoiled, overprotected, demanding, etc. However, how does all this pan out when they get into relationships? One could say that it all depends on who they date. Going on the assumption that older siblings have been brought up to take care of others, and that younger siblings/only children grow up being accustomed to being taken care of,

There are a couple setups:

1. An only child could date an only child - there would be a lot of work at hand here, since both individuals aren't necessarily used to taking care of others. If one of them adapts to the missing role, then it could potentially work out. If both of them continue to expect to be taken care of, but no one steps up, then there could be trouble. It's a good time for personal development.

2. An only child could date someone who's the youngest sibling - again, we have a situation very similar to scenario #1. Both are used to being the baby, so unless they both grow up a little, you could have two unhappy people on your hands.

3. An only child could date someone who's an oldest sibling- this situation has its own unique hurdles. The only child can continue to stay in his/her role of being taken care of since the older sibling can continue being the older sibling. However, since this is a relationship and not a siblinghood, if the older sibling expected the only child to take care of him/her in return, he could have some disappointments coming.

4. An only child could date someone who's in the middle - this maybe one of the best setups, since the middle child has some flexibility in his/her idenity and role in relationships.

However, what it all boils down to, is what you are looking for. If a guy wants a girl who he wants to take care of and baby around, maybe he should find an only child or youngest sibling. If a guy wants a girl who's mature and can handle her own, maybe an older sibling would be a good bet.

These scenarios and situations are definitely not set in stone. There are exceptions--many of them possibly if one looks for them. Just keep in mind your prospective date's sibling background the next time you're trying to figure out "why the heck does he/she act this way??" You MIGHT get your answer.

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