What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the only child?
The only child in a family has now become a common choice. The child has both advantages and disadvantages. Some of them are written below.
One advantage is that the only child is well balanced and socially adept. Parents have mobility and resources to support an active social role for their only children. These children have no problem fitting in and making new friends as many of their class mates are also only children. One disadvantage is that if he turns out to be the only child in the entire class, he may become shy, and socially withdrawn
Most couples who want to have a single child are determined to maintain a comfortable standard of living for both. The only child obviously benefits from having the family financial resources focused upon him or herself. With lots of toys and much comfort and luxuries, these only children make the most of life. Since neighbour’s children are also like them, they make their neighbourhood more socially lively. However, one great disadvantage is the risk of being pampered. These children may be spoiled with lots of expensive things and money to such an extent that they become difficult to manage. Moreover, they do not know the difficult part of life where parents forego one thing being short of cash. Therefore, they might spend lavishly and not save.
Some couples are increasingly concerned about their children’s education. If they have only one child, they have more time to focus on the general aspects of his development and learning issues and can give him individual attention and good education. Studies have found that only children often do better in life as they are higher achievers. This brings happiness in the family. The other side of the coin is that some of these children may not do well for their <easy> resources may spoil them. Hence, they become nuisance and fully dependant on their parents rather than trying to get them from their own effort.
The only child in a family will not have to share his thing with others. On his parents’ death, he inherits all their property. He has no quarrel or friction that sometimes brothers and sisters go through. The disadvantage is that he may have not learnt the value of sharing and he may have no experience of forgiving and <live and let live > philosophy. The negative part can be his egotism and unforgiving attitude.
To conclude, I can say that the only child has both advantages and disadvantages. It all depends on how he is brought up and his behaviour that he develops.
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