A parent should never have only one child. 

Psychologically speaking, there has been a lot of research revolving around “only-child syndrome”. Psychologist G. Stanley Hall characterized only children to be “spoiled, selfish, self-absorbed, lonely, antisocial, and bossy”.

Some reasons for this can be that an only child has no one to share toys with growing up, or they were the only ones who received all the attention. 

Individuals may disagree or agree with statements that Hall produced. Although, only children have many benefits. Growing up alone can provide a sense of independence, a faster maturity rate, and being closer to their parents. 

Personally speaking, I believe that a parent should have at least two children. 

Growing up in a Mexican-American household provided me with a lot of insight into what goes on in the real world. 

My oldest brother, Samuel, being 16 years older than me (currently 32), was the first in my family to graduate from both high school and university. From then on, he aided my sister in applying to universities, navigating high school, etc. Once my sister learned and made her mistakes, she helped my brother in the same way. 

Now, after all three of my siblings successfully graduated high school and university, it is now my turn. Watching them grow up and make mistakes is a learning experience for me. 

Comparing this to an only child, they have only themselves to learn how to navigate the difficult time that high school can be. While being an only child may have its perks of receiving the attention, they will not receive the same knowledge I get from my siblings. 

Children experience conflict with their parents 

Something that every child experiences is conflict with their parents. Although, what siblings provide is an escape and a place to vent in times like this. 

My only sister, Elizabeth (currently 27), allowed me to confide in her throughout my childhood. Being with her comforted me in no way my parents could, she listened to me and defended me against my parents. She understands me, because she once went through the same thing. 

Having siblings can not only provide another resource, but it can provide a place of understanding to a child. 

On the other hand, an only child only has themselves. Sure, they can reach out to a program like therapy to talk, but it will never compare to ranting to a sibling. I’m thankful for my sister and could not imagine a life without her. 

Understanding conflict resolution 

Lastly, something that an only child can struggle with is difficulty handling conflict. 

Without sibling rivalry and daily interactions, an only child may struggle with conflict resolution in later relationships. 

My other brother, Eduardo, (currently 22), showed me how to handle conflict respectfully. While he and I may not get along at times, he has shown me that family will always be there and that with communication, conflict can be resolved. Eduardo can easily get mad, but at the end of the day, he will always be someone I can rely on. 

I thank my parents for providing me with my siblings. 

I know that at times, it can be hard to deal with them, but they have my back through anything. They have provided me with memories I will never forget like those countless nights of quietly giggling with them. They understand me, see me, and appreciate me for who I am. 

I truly encourage having more than one child, even if it’s just two. 

It will help the children tremendously as they navigate through life.

Editor’s note: This article was written by Grossmont High School student Jose Morales.

Top photo credit: Pixabay.com