This book examines only-child experience in global perspective and offers an insight into the dilemmas and challenges only-children face as adults. Explored from both a social and psychological perspective, it reveals the complexity and multidimensional nature of the private and public worlds of the only-child.

Although parenting approaches change, attitudes about only children remain stuck in the past. The negative stereotypes—lonely, selfish, bossy, spoiled, socially maladjusted—make parents think their child will be at a disadvantage when compared to those who grow up with siblings. The Case for the Only Child debunks the myths, taking into account the many chang­es the nuclear family has experienced in the face of two-family incomes, women who have children later, and the economic reality of raising children in our modern world. Combining often-surprising findings with real-life stories, compassionate in­sight, and thought-provoking questions, Dr. Susan Newman provides a guide to help you decide for yourself how to best plan your family and raise a single child. -Provides fascinating facts and statistics to show the reasons for the rapid risein the number of singletons -Explores pressure from friends, relatives, and strangers to have a second child . . . and how to deal with it -Demystifies the realities of raising and being an only child with personal stories and current research -Explores the highly debated question: Does a child need a sibling?

By a child-care authority and mother of an only child, this useful, knowledgeable book provides sound advice on creating an enriching environment that's stimulating and enjoyable for only children and their parents alike.

The author discusses the pros and cons of being an only child.

An eerie and absorbing novel following a criminal psychologist who has discovered shocking and possibly dangerous connections between a serial killer and her stepdaughter. The book to read for fans of the movie Parasite. Criminal psychologist Seonkyeong receives an unexpected call one day. Yi Byeongdo, a serial killer whose gruesome murders shook the world, wants to be interviewed. Yi Byeongdo, who has refused to speak to anyone until now, asks specifically for her. Seonkyeong agrees out of curiosity. That same day Hayeong, her husband’s eleven-year-old daughter from a previous marriage, shows up at their door after her grandparents, with whom she lived after her mother passed away, die in a sudden fire. Seonkyeong wants her to feel at home, but is gradually unnerved as the young girl says very little and acts strangely. At work and at home, Seonkyeong starts to unravel the pasts of the two new arrivals in her life and begins to see startling similarities. Hayeong looks at her the same way Yi Byeongdo does when he recounts the abuse he experienced as a child; Hayeong’s serene expression masks a temper that she can’t control. Plus, the story she tells about her grandparents’ death, and her mother’s before that, deeply troubles Seonkyeong. So much so that Yi Byeongdo picks up on it and starts giving her advice. Written with exquisite precision and persistent creepiness, The Only Child is psychological suspense at its very best.

Addressing the advantages and disadvantages of being an only child, this consideration discusses how growing up in a single-child family affects a child’s attitudes, relationships, and future. The study draws on the experiences of a wide range of children without siblings, exploring the difficulties they are faced with and how, as adults, they have learned to cope with these problems. At a time when couples are increasingly limiting their families to one son or daughter, this survey answers a pressing and growing need, making it essential for any parent or partner of an only child.

An updated edition of the bestselling guide! Do you have problems saying "No?" Do people always turn to you for a favor? Wonder how you get roped into things you really don't want to do--with friends or family, at work or even with pushy salespeople? Refusing someone is rarely easy. Often, it's downright uncomfortable. But constantly saying "yes" causes anxiety, anger, stress, regret, and feelings of powerlessness. Social psychologist and author Dr. Susan Newman empowers you to break your debilitating yes habit with her simple techniques and insights. This new, enhanced edition is filled with research and timely scenarios that offer more ways to say "no" without feeling guilty or damaging your relationships. You'll discover how to: Recognize when someone is manipulating you into "yes" Be ready with the words you need to refuse Avoid being overcommitted, overworked and overwhelmed Put an end to feelings of resentment or frustration Make quality time for things you want to do Establish and keep your boundaries strong Harness the power of "No" and take back your life.