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