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Related Experiment Videos

Probing Birth-Order Effects on Narrow Traits Using Specification-Curve Analysis.

Julia M Rohrer1,2,3, Boris Egloff4, Stefan C Schmukle3

  • 11 International Max Planck Research School on the Life Course (LIFE), Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany.

Psychological Science
|October 18, 2017
PubMed
Summary

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Birth order has no significant impact on most personality traits, including narrow characteristics. Large-scale studies confirm negligible birth order effects on personality beyond intellect.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • The influence of birth order on personality is a long-standing debate.
  • Recent research suggests negligible effects on broad personality traits (Big Five).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate birth order effects on a wider range of narrow personality traits.
  • To rigorously assess evidence for birth order effects using specification-curve analysis.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized specification-curve analysis on large representative samples (N=6,500-10,500 between-family; N=900-1,200 within-family).
  • Examined effects across various analytical models, controlling for factors like age and sibling spacing.

Main Results:

  • Confirmed prior findings of a birth order effect on intellect.
Keywords:
birth-order effectsopen materialspolitical attitudesreciprocityrisk takingsiblingsspecification-curve analysistrust

Related Experiment Videos

  • Found no meaningful birth order effects on life satisfaction, locus of control, interpersonal trust, reciprocity, risk-taking, patience, impulsivity, or political orientation.
  • Lack of effects extended to narrowly defined personality characteristics.

    • Conclusions:

    • Birth order position does not significantly shape most personality traits, even narrowly defined ones.
    • The negligible impact of birth order on personality is robust across various analytical approaches.