Study Says Firstborn Children Often Have Highest Intelligence

Researchers report that firstborn children are more likely to be smarter than their younger siblings. The most common reason for their higher intelligence is how they are raised, not genetics or otherwise.

The recent study focused on 240,000 first-born Norwegian men and the results indicated that their IQ was 2-3 points higher than their brother's and sisters. The average IQ is around 100 but a couple points in either direction can make a difference in intelligence. First born had an IQ score of 103, with second born averaging 101, third born at 100 points.

During their lifespan, first born children will likely have an advantage over their siblings because of their birth order. It can also be assumed then that they have a head start at being more successful adults as a result.

Looking at our history, many famous scientist, inventors, authors and notable figures have been first born children. The idea that they are advantaged in ways has been acknowledged for awhile, the unknown was why this was likely.

Is there some genetic reason why the first born is smarter? It is, after all, the first time the DNA of the mother and father combine forces to make another human being. According to this study this is not the caser for higher intelligence among older siblings.

When they compared IQ's in families where the first born had passed away, the next oldest child had an IQ comparable to other first born individuals. This leaves one to believe the role in the family and the dynamics of each sibling group had more importance than genetics alone.

Many different theories on birth order's impact exist and many top universities are filled with high amounts of first-born students. There really are a number of factors involved in regards to why one child in a family would be smarter than a sibling, but some aspects of being first born make sense.

The first baby is the only child who gets all his or her parents attention. Any subsequent children will have to share this with one another right from the start. First born children are the first to make most developmental milestones and other accomplishments. In their parents eyes they are the more experienced child. First born are often given more responsibily and independence. They tend to take charge of things as they may be seen as a leader. They may help take care of younger siblings and often parents expect more from them.

For more information about this study and a look at what lower IQ points may mean during a lifetime please read the following article:

AP. " Firstborn found to have higher intelligence " Newsday.com

http://www.newsday.com/news/health/science/la-sci-firstborn22jun22,0,5815842.story?page=2&track=mostemailedlink