Firstborn, middle, or youngest? Birth order affects children’s health

Although the impact of birth order on personality and behavioral traits is well-known, recent research indicates that birth order can also affect certain health aspects, including the immune system, obesity risk, and anxiety levels. Yahoo Life has outlined some aspects of birth order that may influence physical and mental health.

Firstborn: Firstborns are typically responsible and often take on a caregiving role among their siblings. They may be more prone to worry, are perceived as more mature than their age, and are generally better leaders. One study found that CEOs are more likely to be firstborns. Another study showed that they are more likely to pursue higher education and earn more income compared to their younger siblings. However, being the firstborn does not necessarily mean an easy start in life. A study found that firstborns are more likely to be born prematurely and have lower birth weights compared to their younger siblings. This is often offset by the fact that parents tend to be more diligent with medical checkups and preventive care for their first child.

May 9, 2025 | 6:44 am