Family Stages / GoalsBirth Order

Stage Main Goal1. Couple without

children2. Family with children

(Newborn – Preschool)

3. Family with school age

4. Family with adolescence

Develop trust

Develop independence & self direction

Develop initiative & steady effort

Guidance / Assist with identity

Stage Main Goal5. Family with young adult (soon leaving)

6. Couple without children (moving towards grandchildren)

7. Aging couple (widows / widowers & grandparent)

Maintain relationship with children

Share interests; take pride in accomplishments

Maintain satisfaction with life

Birth Order Describe the first born. What is your perception of the “baby” of

the family?

How does an only child act?

First Born 50% of US Presidents are 1st born

Famous 1st born – Truman, Carter, W. Bush, Bill Cosby, Oprah Winfrey

Traits Goal setting High achievement Responsible Rule follower Attention to detail Perfectionism

Second Born 1st born is a “pacemaker”

Famous 2nd born – David Letterman, Donald Trump

Traits Competitive Feelings of inadequate May rebel Attempt to “out do” siblings

Third Born “Sandwiched in” / May get lost in the crowd Considered the “iffy” child (unpredictable)

Famous “middle child” – George Washington, Richard Nixon, Jay Leno, Britney Spears

Traits Flexible Peacemaker Social Independent thinker (may rebel)

Last Born The “baby” of the family Often “on their own” with siblings

Famous “babies” – Katie Couric, Billy Crystal, Bob Hope, Jim Carey, Harriet Tubman

Traits Risk takers Outgoing Sense of humor / Affectionate Question authority Attention seeking Down to earth