Are YOU The First-Born Child? Research Explains Why The Oldest Children Always Have The Mental Edge

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Although there were assumptions about birth orders, a recent study has just proven how it affects the intelligence within siblings. This is in regards to first-born children and how they have the mental edge and "excel" in terms of thinking skills. This means that those who were born first, have higher IQ tests for as early as their first year compared to their sibs.

According to AJC, researchers at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Sydney have analyzed over 5,000 before birth up to 14 years of age. Tests were conducted to each child every two years that involves reading recognition and picture vocabulary. The experts have also gathered details about the respondent's family background and economic conditions.

"First-born children scored higher than their younger siblings on IQ tests as early as age 1," scientists said. "Although all children received the same levels of emotional support, first-born children received more support with tasks that developed thinking skills."

The study also found out that the parental behavior transforms as the number of their children increased. Unlike with their first-born child, parents were not able to provide the similar mental stimulation to their younger children and there were lesser engagement and activities such as crafts, reading, and even with playing musical instruments. Furthermore, the University of Edinburgh suggests that mothers also have the higher risks while being pregnant of their latter child, like smoking.

Previous studies have also revealed that the oldest child seems to be better educated and makes more money in the latter life. The recent research has backed this up in terms of the so-called "birth order effect."

"Our results suggest that broad shifts in parental behavior are a plausible explanation for the observed birth order difference in education and labor market outcomes," Dr. Ana Nuevo-Chiquero of the University of Edinburgh said.