Contrary to beliefs that an only child is selfish and lonely, several studies pointed out that this isn't entirely true. Having one child is actually a positive move for most families.
Though it's believed that only children are antisocial and spoiled, these myths were debunked by several researchers. Most families nowadays opted to have just one child. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, "single-child families are the fastest growing family" in the United States, wherein in it significantly increased from 10 million back in 1972 to 15 million as per Parents.
Susan Newman, PhD, the author of "Parenting an Only Child: The Joys and Challenges of Raising Your One and Only," discussed the misconceptions of being the only child. In one of her interviews, Newman stated, "The most common myths -- that only children are spoiled, bossy, and socially inept -- haven't panned out, Studies show that only children are no different from other kids. Specifically, they're not more spoiled, lonely, selfish, or overly dependent."
Raising an only child has numerous pros as it is easier for parents to nurture and give the child attention he/she needs. It is important to make the child feel loved and important. Though having an only child gives the parents undivided attention when it comes to quality time, it is important not to overdo it.
Parents need to set boundaries when it comes to raising their only child as it can sometimes get out of hand, most especially when it comes to protecting them as mentioned in the Only Child Project. It is important to understand that they would need to face some problems on their own.
According to Newman, "These parents put all their eggs in one basket, so it's natural for them to be extra cautious, When an only child starts to walk, his parents hover over him and don't let him fall. When an only child gets in a fight with a friend, her parents rescue her. She can't learn how to navigate the world if her parents always are interfering or fighting her battles."
