When i (21m) was in high school people told me i had only child energy all the time, despite me not being an only child I always just assumed it was because i was really shy and introverted in high school, but even now, despite the fact i'm much more outgoing and extroverted, people still say i have only child energy So, what does having only child energy actually mean? When you think of an only child, what comes to mind But in truth, only child energy is complex, dynamic, and deeply shaped by growing up without siblings. Selfishness, maladjustment, social ineptitude — but is this syndrome even real?
Only children are acutely aware that theirs is the only report card coming home, newman said Bearing the full burden of parents' expectations and emotions can also make it harder for only children to develop and embrace a separate self—particularly during adolescence—a period key for differentiation, pickhardt said. Only children aren't more or less lonely than those with siblings On the contrary, only children tend to invest a lot of time and energy into their friendships. Adult only children take the long view on the benefits and drawbacks of growing up solo. Whether you loved growing up solo, felt the pressure of being the one and only, or simply want to laugh and connect over the quirks and strengths of only child life — you've found your people
A therapist explores how growing up solo can impact your identity, relationships, and even how you date or parent in adulthood. Parents of an only child typically have more time and energy to affirm their kid's efforts and achievements, whether in academics, sports, or creative pursuits
OPEN
