Only-Child Experience & Adulthood

The only-child phenomenon is increasing worldwide, but little attention has been given to the lived experiences and social identity of the adult only-child. How have they experienced a life without siblings? What are the social and psychological implications of this absence? Do cultural stereotypes of the spoilt, selfish only-child affect them? Are there advantages to being an only-child? Are only-children different in some way?

In this exciting new book, Bernice Sorensen presents adult only-child experiences from around the world and offers an insight into the dilemmas and challenges faced throughout different life stages, including interpersonal relationships and self-image. Examined from both a social and psychological perspective, this book reveals the complexity and multidimensional nature of the private, personal and public worlds of the only-child.