We've all heard the stereotypes of only children; they're spoiled, lonely, selfish, etc. For some reason, some believe that not having any siblings is a bad or sad thing. Coming from an only child, I can say with certainty that neither are true.
I understand why those who have siblings are curious as to what it's like to have none. Every only child has wondered the opposite as well. But I don't think they missed out on the things that come along with being sibling-less. There are positives and negatives to both, but that doesn't mean that one way of life is better than the other.
I'm fine with someone asking me what it's like to grow up without a sister or brother, but what I always find odd is when I'm asked something like this: "Did you like being an only child?" I'm sure they're intentions are good, but I never know how to answer that question. I mean, yes? This is the only way of life that I've known, so I can't compare. But if you're asking if I'm scarred, then no.
Even my mom has been asked if I was okay with not having any siblings. One in particular, asked because they were trying to figure out whether or not they should have another child or not. Again, good intentions, but that's actually pretty insulting and definitely not a question that can or should be answered by other people. Insinuating that I was possibly "not okay" with being an only child is essentially saying, "There is something wrong with having only one child."
There's not.
The world is filled with tons of people who are only children that are happy and normal. Not having a sibling doesn't equal not being "okay" anymore than having a sibling equals being "okay." Don't get me wrong, I used to want a little sister when I was young, and I'm sure others have felt the same, but that doesn't mean that I hold a grudge against my parents or wish my life was different. I would never wish to change being an only child just like those with them wouldn't either.
And as far as the being selfish or a brat thing goes, it doesn't take long to look around and see that there are plenty of people with siblings that fit those descriptions. Having those traits doesn't automatically come from not having a sister or brother. Just because I've never had to share my room with anyone doesn't mean I wasn't taught to not be selfish. Sure, I got all of my parents attention, but I don't think the world revolves around me. Those with siblings aren't automatically instilled to be selfless, kind, considerate, or any other good characteristic. They are taught to be those things by the people who raise them, which is possible to do with 1 or 5 kids.
So shake off all that unneeded speculation and judgement only children. We know who we are and what it's like to be us, and that's all that matters.
