In many families, the older daughter often assumes the role of the ‘family manager,’ taking on responsibilities and leadership roles within the household. This phenomenon can be observed across various cultures and family structures, leading to the question: why does the older daughter often feel compelled to take on this role? This article explores the psychological, cultural, and familial factors that contribute to this dynamic, providing insights into the complex interplay of birth order, gender roles, and parental expectations.

Birth order has long been studied as a factor influencing personality and behavior within families. Alfred Adler, a pioneer in this field, suggested that firstborn children often develop leadership qualities and a sense of responsibility due to their initial undivided attention from parents. As younger siblings are born, the older child may feel a need to maintain their status by taking on more responsibilities, which can manifest as a ‘managerial’ role within the family.

Psychological Theories on Birth Order and Personality

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