Emotional implications of the arrival of a sibling for the firstborn: a literature review
The birth of a second child is a specific phase of the family life cycle, which brings changes, especially for the firstborn. The present article examines some theoretical questions and empirical studies concerning the emotional implications of the birth of a second child for the firstborn. The studies suggest that this is a special moment both for mothers, who need to take care of two children, and for the firstborn who is no longer an only child and needs to share maternal care. The literature on the impact of the birth of a second child on the firstborn has presented contradictory results. If, on the one hand, it has highlighted the firstborn’s greater dependence and regressive behaviours, on the other, it has indicated more independent behaviours. Moreover, the literature considers dependence behaviours as negative, while independence behaviours are seen as positive and a sign of growth. It is fundamental to identify transition points in the family cycle, so as to help parents to understand that the child follows its own rhythm of development towards independence, and may present more regressive behaviours in moments of transition.