The study will be conducted using the qualitative method of grounded theory and employs triangulation, specifically, an essay, a focus group, and an individual interview. This ensures that the data collected does not merely reflect the systematic biases or limitations of any one method, and also permits a broader array of data, and thus, a deeper understanding of the topic. The open-ended questions are designed to allow the researcher to examine several key areas and themes within the temporal development of sibling/parent relationships, including sibling competition, similarities and differences between siblings, parental expectations, and perceived role within the family. Demographics including age, number of siblings, age differences between siblings, and the marital status of parents are also considered. The chief goals are to examine the extent to which birth-order-related personality traits are shared by middle siblings who grew up under different circumstances, as well as the extent to which these traits play a role in and/or interact with relationship development within the family.
Participants
For this research, a convenience sample of five (5) participants will be obtained from a population of African American females with at least two siblings (one will be older and one younger). The participants are students between 17 and 21 years old. These participants have been selected because birth order is thought to influence many aspects of an individual’s development.
Participants
For this research, a convenience sample of five (5) participants will be obtained from a population of African American females with at least two siblings (one will be older and one younger). The participants are students between 17 and 21 years old. These participants have been selected because birth order is thought to influence many aspects of an individual’s development.