Psychologist Dr. Michael Brown argues that birth order significantly affects personality, with firstborns tending to be more conscientious and later-borns more creative. Critics suggest these effects are overblown in popular culture.
Which research finding would best support Brown's position?
Many famous leaders were firstborn children
Family size has decreased over time
Parents report treating their children equally
A study of 20,000 siblings found firstborns scored 15% higher on conscientiousness measures and later-borns scored 20% higher on creative thinking assessments, effects that persisted across cultures and income levels
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Large sample + cross-cultural consistency + specific trait measurements validates the claim.
- Context clues: Brown claims specific personality differences by birth order.
- Evidence evaluation: 20,000 siblings + multiple cultures controls for confounds.
- Verify: 15% conscientiousness + 20% creativity matches claimed traits.
💡 Strategy: Claims about human nature need large, diverse samples to be credible.