Middle child syndrome, a “syndrome” developed by pop culture, describes the overshadowing of middle children by their older and younger siblings. The syndrome is deemed a “hypothetical condition” by the American Psychological Association, given the lack of empirical evidence supporting it. Middle child syndrome alleges that children who are in the middle of the birth order of their family develop outcast, rebellious personalities as a result of more attention going to the cuter younger sibling or the authoritative older sibling. 

The syndrome is composed of many common characteristics, such as being independent, attention-seeking, and feeling distanced from parents. It also is well-known for its exaggerated stereotypes, including middle children being the “forgotten child,” and having an inferiority complex. Experts have looked further into whether birth order has an influence on personality, and have found that middle children are more likely to have trouble with wrongdoing and are less family-oriented. Birth-order may also have effects on mental health, with higher birth order being associated with poorer mental health. 

Since middle child syndrome is a “hypothetical condition,” and is full of uncertainties concerning the negative characteristics of middle children, it can be hard to foresee how being a middle child can affect a child. However, given the commonality of middle child experiences, it can be worth it to check in on their mental health, and to try therapy if they are experiencing any of the characteristics of middle child syndrome. Overall, empirical evidence suggests that the effects of being a middle child may be minimal, but they are still worth paying attention to.  

Kylie Robinshaw

Research Assistant, UConn KIDS

Article Link: https://psychcentral.com/health/middle-child-syndrome

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