How does being the second child typically affect their behavior within the family?

Being the second child often leads to behaviors that reflect a desire to catch up to the firstborn. This phenomenon stems from the dynamics created by having an older sibling who has already paved the way in terms of experiences and expectations. The second child may perceive the older sibling as a standard to measure against, prompting them to engage in behaviors that are competitive or driven by the need to match or surpass those of their sibling.

This reaction can be fueled by observing the attention and achievements of the firstborn, leading the second child to feel a sense of urgency to establish their identity and capabilities within the family structure. As a result, they may push themselves to excel in various areas, portraying a sense of vigor and determination that is often characteristic of those in subsequent birth orders. Thus, this phenomenon of "catching up" can manifest in their activities, social interactions, and overall development as they navigate their place in the family hierarchy.