The sibling stereotype is a very popular theory about typical characteristics of siblings depending on birth order. The oldest usually has strong leadership qualities, the middle being a peacemaker and calm, while the youngest is the most outgoing and often seen as coddled.

Many studies have shown that when there is an age gap between siblings of 4 or more years the typical qualities can be swapped or the youngest may have more only child traits. These stereotypical characteristics can go away with time and growing up, but can also be very consistent.

Collin Knight, 10, and his siblings continue to follow these typical character traits.

“My older sister has always liked to Boss me around since I was young, and my little brother is difficult at times,” Knight said.

Hadley Walton, 10, has an older brother and she favors the youngest sibling qualities.

“My brother is definitely the more responsible one, and I feel like I’m the better one,” Walton said.

The stereotypical sibling traits can definitely be applied to people with more or less than two siblings. Some siblings will share the typical qualities which can lead to them being best friends or bickering and bumping heads.

Addy Hays, 10, has two older siblings and one younger sibling, which throws off the usual sibling stereotypes.

“My youngest definitely gets most of the attention and my older siblings are always fighting with the youngest, and I feel like I’m always in the middle of it,” Hays said.