"Siblings usually grow up together in the same house, with the same parents, and sharing the same cultural background, yet they still become remarkably different people with distinct interests and divergent life paths. This is a widespread occurrence in families, but in immigrant families, the phenomenon becomes even more pronounced, as cultural expectations, adaptation pressures, and family roles provide additional layers of complexity. Children raised in such environments must navigate between the customs of their ancestors and the practices of the dominant culture,"
"Birth order is a primary driver of role, responsibility, and family hierarchy, particularly in immigrant families. Firstborns generally take on much of the responsibility for maintaining high educational standards and upholding cultural values. They are often mentors to their younger siblings, and may assume adult responsibilities such as helping their parents communicate with the outside world or navigate institutions like schools and health care systems."
Siblings who grow up together often become remarkably different despite shared parents, household, and cultural background. Differences intensify in immigrant families because cultural expectations, adaptation pressures, and family roles add complexity. Children navigate ancestral customs and dominant-culture practices at different rates, creating varied identities and relationship patterns. Birth order, family dynamics, and personal characteristics influence how each sibling interprets and responds to culture. Firstborns frequently assume educational, cultural, and institutional responsibilities, gaining maturity and leadership while also facing pressure. Recognizing individual pathways enables parents, teachers, and counselors to support each child and maintain healthy family relationships.
Read at Psychology Today
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