According to groundbreaking research from the University of Oslo, being the firstborn son can give you a significant advantage in intelligence. Examining military draft records of over 240,000 Norwegian men, the study found that firstborns had an IQ advantage of 2.3 points over their next oldest brothers. In turn, these next oldest brothers surpassed third-born brothers by an average of 1.1 points.
Interestingly, the study also discovered that the social status within the family plays a crucial role in determining IQ scores. Whether a man was raised as the eldest, regardless of birth order, or raised as the second-born, their IQs matched those of their firstborn counterparts.
This research confirms a long-held suspicion among scientists that being the firstborn provides an inherent advantage. Many believe that the additional time and attention parents are able to devote to their firstborn children contribute to their higher IQs. As more children are added to the family, this quality time is divided, potentially impacting the intellectual development of younger siblings.
These findings shed light on the complex relationship between birth order, social dynamics, and intelligence. Understanding these factors can help parents better support the educational needs of their children and foster an environment that maximizes their potential.
