Factors affecting the first-born child's attitude toward the second child in Shanghai.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate factors associated with the attitude of the first-born child (FBC) towards the birth of the second child in China, in order to provide guidance for the preparation of a multi-child family. A questionnaire, including requesting information for gender, age, health, parents' education and household income, was randomly distributed participating FBCs. The anxiety level, psychological, emotional and behavioral manifestations of the FBCs were evaluated. F-test and t-test were performed to identify significant factors associated with the FBC's attitude towards the second child. Out of the 65 surveys distributed, 61 were recovered and analyzed. Our analysis indicated that female FBCs (total score vs. male, 45.38±4.02 vs. 42.95±4.29, p=0.031) with parents of higher education (p=0.020 in psychological and p=0.025 in behavioral manifestations) were in general more receptive to the second child. The FBC's health, school years and household income were not significant factors associated with their attitude towards the second child (p>0.05). Our analysis also found that the FBC's attitude towards the arrival of the second child was largely positive, and older children with parents of higher education were more likely to be receptive to the second child. The findings of this study could provide guidance for parents to better prepare the psychological, emotional and behavioral states of the FBCs and family, enabling the FBCs with a positive attitude towards the second child. This finding is instrumental to promote a harmonious family atmosphere and growth environment for both the first- and second-born children.