Eldest Daughter Syndrome Occurs in First-born Girls of Stressed Moms
Published: March 5, 2024 | Updated: March 5, 2024, 10:46 a.m. ET
About the Study
A recent study conducted by UCLA researchers has revealed the existence of a phenomenon known as “eldest daughter syndrome.” The term, coined by first-born girls, refers to the additional responsibilities faced by eldest daughters in a household with younger siblings. The study suggests that eldest daughter syndrome may be a biological phenomenon, particularly in cases where the mother experienced stress, depression, or loneliness during pregnancy. The findings indicated that adversity encountered during the prenatal phase of life may result in the earlier maturity of the first-born girl, which could enable her to assist in the care of the mother’s other children.
Research Methodology
The study involved a 15-year longitudinal analysis of 253 mother-child pairs, starting from pregnancy through early adolescence. The participants were mostly college-educated first-time mothers from Southern California, with the study tracking their stress, depression, and anxiety levels during pregnancy. The researchers also assessed the children’s biomarkers of adrenal and gonadal puberty at various ages to identify any correlation. The study found that first-born daughters whose mothers experienced high levels of prenatal stress displayed early signs of adrenal puberty, indicating a biological relationship between eldest daughter syndrome and the mother’s emotional well-being during pregnancy.
Impact of Eldest Daughter Syndrome
The research also discovered that eldest daughters often assume the role of “mommy’s little helper” after experiencing childhood adversity or trauma. Factors such as the death of a parent, parental separation before age 5, the absence of the father, and low income-to-needs ratios at ages 7 to 9 contribute to the increased responsibilities shouldered by eldest daughters. Although eldest daughter syndrome is not an official mental health diagnosis, its impact on their lives can be significant. Previous studies on birth order theory have also highlighted how birth order can shape a child’s thoughts and behaviors, with first-born girls often described as diligent and driven individuals.
Recognizing Eldest Daughter Syndrome
Psychologist Kati Morton, in a viral TikTok video, shared the eight signs that may indicate a person has eldest daughter syndrome. While these signs are not definitive, they can provide insights into the challenges faced by eldest daughters. Some of the signs include an intense feeling of responsibility, a tendency to be an overachiever, and struggles with setting boundaries and maintaining healthy adult relationships.
Conclusion
The study’s findings reinforce the importance of considering the significant and lifelong impacts of prenatal emotional and environmental factors on both women and their offspring. Understanding the relationship between prenatal distress and eldest daughter syndrome can help shape strategies and policies that improve access to healthcare and enhance the well-being of pregnant mothers. Further research in this field can provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of family relationships.
