Why is it that those with siblings resent them, and those without siblings wish to have them?

Question

I think I know the answer, but I want to hear your opinion.

I've always wanted a younger sister, but it's too late for that now. Anyone feel the same? (from a "kid's" perspective)

Answer 1

I wish I knew the answer to that.I am an only child.I detested growing up without a sibling.I hate the fact that I will never be an aunt,have nieces or nephews.I made sure when I had my first daughter I had another a year later.I wanted them to have what I never had.Yet they resent one another.They are always fighting,yet sometimes I catch them being proper sisters.I think to myself how lucky they are to have each other and they should appreciate it.The other day my eldest said "I wish she had never been born,why can she not die"?.I can't fathom it out.It must be jealousy,yet I try and treat them the same.The one that said that is tall,attractive,long hair.The younger is smaller and cute.They are 12 and 13.

Answer 2

Because, "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence".

I used to think I wanted a younger brother, even though I only had older ones. Prehaps this is because my mom lost a son after me, pre-birth. Maybe this was my way to "grieve"...wishing the boy had "made it" and I would have welcomed him, of course.

I've grown out of it..."Que sera, sera"...whatever will be, will be...whatever is, is. And, I've come to the place where I think about the good things in life and I am thankful for them. This comes with time and wisdom.

Answer 3

Some with siblings resent them because the resenter wishes they were the one and only to get all the attention etc. With only one, the parents can give them so much more! And the only child in the family wants someone to be close to and share things.