Birth Order and Laughter

Some studies have shown that only or eldest children tend to laugh less than others. No doubt that is related, at least in part, to the fact that parents tend to practice on only or eldest children; and tend to lighten up on succeeding children if there is more than one. In multiple sibling families, it tends to be the youngest child who laughs the most, and the oldest who laughs the least. Some studies have shown that if there are five or more years between children, each will carry some characteristics of an eldest or only child—in addition to characteristics related to a middle child or the youngest child. Think back to your childhood. Who laughed in your family? Was laughter encouraged? In one of my presentations and elderly gentleman spoke up and said he had absolutely nothing to laugh about. I admittedly took a risk when I suggested he go home, take all his clothes off, and try to identify which body part needed to be ironed first. People started laughing just at the thought and soon the whole room followed suit. Fortunately, so did he. “I just might try that,” he said between guffaws. Do whatever it takes. Choose to laugh. It matters.