In a sense, each child is born into a different family. With each new birth, the circumstances of the family have changed. Parents are older, the family is larger, financial circumstances may have changed, emotional components are different, etc. Such changes create a different environment for each child.

Of course the theory of birth order is controversial. You can find supporters for both nurture and nature. And birth order is affected by a variety of factors such as gender, family size, and the spacing of years between births. But just for fun, let's examine the general characteristics attributed to each birth position. Can you find yourself or your siblings in any of the descriptions?

Only Child: Generally a child with very high expectations of himself, a perfectionist. More comfortable with adults at an early age, often precocious. Tend to be closer to parents into adulthood. Usually do well in school, and may feel that they're special. Likes being the center of attention, but can become over-protected and spoiled. As much of a leader as firstborns.

Famous only children: Franklin D. Roosevelt, Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Lindbergh

The Firstborn Child: Firstborns tend to be natural leaders and achievers. However, a major trait of firstborns is perfectionism, which can cause a great deal of stress as the firstborn pushes himself to excel. Typically self-confident, organized, and ambitious. Often a logical thinker and a problem solver. Conscientious, reliable, assertive. Often successful in school, but can be a little rigid. Loves making lists and crossing things off of lists. Reserved and serious in approach to life.

Famous Firstborns: Saddam Hussein, Winston Churchill, Sir Isaac Newton, Sigmund Freud, Albert Einstein

The Middleborn Child: The middle child is often more easygoing with regard to their expectations of themselves and others - and yet, they work hard to achieve uniqueness and get ahead. They're generally adept at negotiation and compromise and are good managers, diplomats, and mediators. They may also feel that they don't quite fit in anywhere, paving the way for rebellion. At the same time, they tend to avoid conflict. Also independent and secretive, yet loyal.

Famous Middles: John F. Kennedy, Donald Trump, Tom Cruise, Bill Gates, Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Laterborn Child: The easygoing charmer who's usually quite adept at manipulating others to get what they want. Affectionate, spontaneous, loveable, seeks attention. A natural salesperson. Instinctively more rebellious - often social radicals. Daring, take chances, and break rules. Often late bloomers who are playful, nonconformist, and sometimes selfish. Uncomplicated and absentminded. May have difficulty accepting responsibility.

Famous Laterborns: Andy Warhol, Harriet Tubman, Ho Chi Minh, Benjamin Franklin, Gandhi