Firstborns are more selfish than other youngsters... but are more likely to achieve greatness

The study shows firstborns, such as Kylie Minogue, are more wary of others whereas younger siblings, like Dannii, were found to be more easygoing.

Need a helping hand? Don't ask an eldest child.

Firstborn children are more selfish and less co-operative than other youngsters, a study has found.

It is thought that the arrival of a younger brother or sister has long-lasting impact on the eldest child's personality, leaving them wary of others and their motives.

The study shows firstborns, such as Kylie Minogue, are more wary of others whereas younger siblings, like Dannii, were found to be more easygoing

The French researchers asked a group of men and women to take part in a financial game designed to assess co-operation.

They played in pairs and each started the game with the same number of Euros.

Player A was asked to give some money to Player B. The donated cash trebled in value on receipt then Player B was asked to give some money back. The risk that Player B may return less money than he was given, or even nothing at all, means that Player A is heavily reliant on trust.

More than 400 volunteers played the game, including 178 firstborns, 48 middle children, 125 lastborns and 66 only children.

Scrutiny of tactics showed that the firstborns gave away 25 per cent less cash when in the role of player A. They also passed less back when in the role of Player B, this week's New Scientist reports.

via Firstborns are more selfish than other youngsters... but are more likely to achieve greatness | Mail Online.