"The Only Child In The Family Is A Lucky Child. " Do you agree?

Families with only one or two children is now a common phenomenon in Singapore. In contrast, families in the past could have up to seven or eight children. The decrease in birth rate is partially due to the rising costs of living. Raising a child requires a lot of money, taking into account the daily necessities, school fees and food costs. Having more children can result in higher stres levels, as children have to be given undivided care and material welfare. Other social and economic factors also play a part in causing a decrease in birth rate, including the subsequent psychological ramifications when couples have children. The question is, is the only child in the family a lucky child?

The only child in the family benefits from resources provided by parents. Material welfare is maximised as there is no competition and diversion of resources to other siblings. As a result, an only child gets more attention and his or her needs are often satisfied. An only child is nurtured in a potentially better environment. The only child in the family is given more opportunities to develop his or her own potential as the parents' resources are devoted to him or her.

However, life as an only child might not be a bed of roses. An only child has to live up to expectations of parents, which are often high, as he or she is perceived as the "only hope" in the family. This inevitable generates greater stress. The need to live up to the expectations of parents may even cause an only child to give up certain ambitions. The possibly impossible goals that an only child strives to achieve can cause him or her to lose confidence and passion for life.

The only child in the family receives maximum care and concern from his parents as more attention can be bestowed upon him. This can foster close family bonds. An only child is often given a warm and safe environment to grow up in, while enjoying undivided care from his parents.

However, the only child in the family often experiences an age gap between him and his parents. It will be tough to confide in his parents regarding sensitive issues. As a result, his personal concerns may not be conveyed to his parents. His parents may also have difficulty understanding his situation, thus causing misunderstandings between parent and child. Children with siblings often have a smaller age gap as they have ease sharing common experiences. In my opinion, it is unhealthy for an only child to bottle up his feelings and concerns.

An only child may lack necessary exposure to peers of a similar age. He may develop an introverted personality due to the fact that there is no chance of him being exposed to relationships. Thus, it is difficult for him to immerse himself in any social gathering.

The only child in the family is fortunate in a way as he enjoys undivided attention and material well-being. However, he is often subject to pressure from parents and experiences intimidations in stepping out of his comfort zone. In my opinion, an only child is lucky to a certain extent only. There may be ramifications arising from the virtue of a single child status.