Listen to the following NPR audio entitled “Science Look at the Sibling Effect” (September 2011). After listening to this Talk of the Nation show from NPR, consider what was discussed about the effects of sibling relationships on human behavior. Use any of the theories of socialization described in Chapter 4, such as social learning theory or cognitive development theory, to explain why research suggests that people have distinct characteristics and outcomes depending on their birth order and sibling relationships. In your explanation, you may want to give a brief summary of the theory (in your own words) to demonstrate that you understand the theory.
If you feel comfortable, apply the effects of siblings on your own family situation by discussing how your birth order may have influenced your development. If you are an only child, discuss how this situation has impacted your human development.
(If the link above does not work, you can copy and paste the following link into a browser: http://www.npr.org/2011/09/16/140537846/science-looks-at-the-sibling-effect
