If you're anything like me, you grew up without siblings to fight with, and hand-me-downs to wear. While all of your friends complained about their favorite sweater (or video game) going missing, you were secretly happy your Mom&Dad stopped at you. You were so "precious" that your parents decided they didn't want any more kids. Or maybe you were awful (just kidding) and you parents didn't want to experience the horrors of a new child again. Either way, growing up an only child was a complicated and downright interesting thing to deal with. The misconceptions people had were endless. And probably true depending on the situation. You were most likely also stereotyped as having "Only Child syndrome", where you think the world revolves around you because your parents taught you that as a kid. Once again, most likely true.
1.) "Were you ever told no when you asked for something?"
The answer here is most likely no. pun intended. We actually were more spoiled than you. Sorry to bust your bubble, but not having siblings lead to our parents having extra money for us. We relished in extra money for food and school supplies. The perks were endless, until we grew up and realized that we actually had to make our own money eventually. However from time to time, we like to relive our childhood and ask our parents something crazy such as "Mom, can I borrow $50 for that new pair of boots?" just to see the obvious answer.
2.) "Did being an only child hinder your social skills?"
Once again, no. Contrary to popular belief, we probably had/have better social skills than you. We grew up going to "boring" parties being forced to socialize with adults more than other kids our age. Us only children were experts at making adults like us. Actually we didn't have to, because we were so damn cute. We most likely also get along with those older than us, leading to our maturity level being higher. (see below) We also were never deprived of attention as children, because our parents didn't have to share their love for us with siblings. So the idea that only children are used to being the center of attention, you got that right. (see Only Child syndrome)
3.) "Who taught you basic social cues aside from your parents?"
Our parents were our best friends. However, we were also forced to grow up faster. There was no one around to teach us how to coordinate an outfit or how to approach that guy. We had to learn many things ourselves, such as how to cook an egg and mop the kitchen floor. This may be the reason that our maturity level is probably higher than people who grew up with siblings all around. We learned to be independent at a young age, from dressing ourselves to reaching that top shelf for food on our own. This may lead to issues when dating an only child, as trying to help them with something will only lead to you being pushed away. We can do things ourselves.
4.) "Was it lonely/Did you get bored?"
The answer here is yes. When our parents were gone for the evening(assuming we were old enough to not have a babysitter), or after school, we didn't have siblings to fight with or do random outings with. We mainly had to rely on ourselves for entertainment. This is why only children are generally more creative and have the ability to think of fun activities on the spot. We were forced to sit by ourselves for hours on some days. Imagine what all that could lead to. The ideas are endless.