“Alfred Adler has given us a new perspective on the drama of the human soul and a new method of penetrating that drama.” E.V. Sidorenko Research by Alfred Adler, an outstanding Austrian psychiatrist and psychologist (1870–1937), emphasizes the importance of birth order, which has a significant impact on the formation of personality and relationships within the family. Let's consider a few examples: The eldest child, as a rule: Takes care of the younger ones, helps with assignments and problems. Takes responsibility for the family and strives for success. Feels pressure to be an example for younger ones. The youngest child tends to: Attract attention through expressive behavior or unconventional approaches. Feels freer from expectations and exhibits creative freedom. Experiences lacks attention and looks for ways to get it. The middle child typically: Develops social skills and strives for uniqueness. Strives for independence and shows individuality. May feel undervalued because of being in the middle. The only child typically: Feels obligated to satisfy the expectations of his parents and strives for success. He experiences loneliness and seeks company and recognition. But there are always exceptions. And yet, let’s try to suggest how birth order can influence relationships in pairs of already grown “former” elders, younger, and only ones.” And most importantly, is it possible to predict “happiness in marriage” if a certain birth order coincides: Older and older child: possible competition for power, caring for each other, difficulties with the ability to relax. Older and younger child: younger may feel underappreciated, maybe in a relationship Taking more than giving, the elder can take on the role of a “parent” to his partner. If the youngest is the wife and the elder is the husband, then a happy marriage for the wife. If it’s the other way around, it’s for the spouse. :-) Younger and younger child: there may be problems in organizing family life associated with responsibility, but fun and vibrant leisure, travel, hobbies. The only and only child: may have high expectations for themselves and their partner. It is important to learn to relax and sometimes lower the “bar.” The only and older child: the only child may be perceived as dependent. The only and youngest child: disagreements may arise due to differences in approaches to problems. But everything can be solved by improving communication and the desire to be together. In summary: birth order can affect happiness in marriage. But it is important to understand that birth order is not the only determining factor. There are many other nuances that also matter, including age differences. For example, if the age difference exceeds 10 years, this can already greatly influence the role of the child in the family, making him the only one rather than the youngest. The strength of a marriage depends on many factors, including communication, respect, support, and the ability to adapt to changes. These skills can be developed in pairs, if desired..