The effects of birth order on an individual's levels of stimulation

In summary, a recent study on rhesus monkeys suggests that birth order can have an impact on an individual's levels of stimulation. The study found that firstborn monkeys and humans produce higher levels of cortisol in stimulating situations compared to their younger siblings. However, this study has been questioned by some, who suggest that there may be other factors at play that could explain these findings. These alternative explanations could include genetic predispositions, environmental influences, or the mother's stress levels during pregnancy. It is important to consider these alternative explanations in order to fully understand the effects of birth order on stimulation levels.
  • #1
DUET
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A recent study of eighteen rhesus monkeys provides clues as to the effects of birth order on an individual's levels of stimulation.


Could someone please explain the bold part?
 
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  • #2
At the risk of stating the obvious: have you tried to read the study? Or at least the abstract?
 
  • #3
Please post a link to the study so that members can know what you're talking about.
 
  • #4
I don't have link. But here is the whole text that I have.

"A recent study of eighteen rhesus monkeys provides clues as to the effects of birth order on an individual's levels of stimulation. The study showed that in stimulating situations (such as an encounter with an unfamiliar monkey), firstborn infant monkeys produce up to twice as much of the hormone cortisol, which primes the body for increased activity levels, as do their younger siblings. Firstborn humans also produce relatively high levels of cortisol in stimulating situations (such as the return of a parent after an absence). The study also found that during pregnancy, first-time mother monkeys had higher levels of cortisol than did those who had had several offspring."
 
  • #5
It's not a real study, it's an essay example for the GRE.

EXAMPLES OF ARGUMENT TOPICS.

Each Argument topic consists of a passage that presents an argument followed by specific task instructions that tell you how to analyze the argument. The wording of some topics in the test might vary slightly from what is presented here. Also, because there may be multiple versions of some topics with similar or identical wording but with different task instructions, it is very important to read your test topic and its specific task directions carefully and respond to the wording as it appears in the actual test.

1) The following appeared as part of a letter to the editor of a scientific journal.

“A recent study of eighteen rhesus monkeys provides clues as to the effects of birth order on an individual’s levels of stimulation. The study showed that in stimulating situations (such as an encounter with an unfamiliar monkey), firstborn infant monkeys produce up to twice as much of the hormone cortisol, which primes the body for increased activity levels, as do their younger siblings. Firstborn humans also produce relatively high levels of cortisol in stimulating situations (such as the return of a parent after an absence). The study also found that during pregnancy, first-time mother monkeys had higher levels of cortisol than did those who had had several offspring.”

Write a response in which you discuss one or more alternative explanations that could rival the proposed explanation and explain how your explanation(s) can plausibly account for the facts presented in the argument.

http://poetsandquants.com/2011/02/0...riting-section-of-the-gre-test/1347718731000/
 

What is birth order?

Birth order refers to the order in which a child is born into a family. It can include factors such as being the oldest, middle, youngest, or only child in a family.

How does birth order affect an individual's levels of stimulation?

Research suggests that birth order can play a role in shaping an individual's levels of stimulation. For example, firstborn children may receive more attention and stimulation from their parents, while later-born children may have to compete for attention, resulting in different levels of stimulation.

What are some potential effects of birth order on an individual's levels of stimulation?

Some potential effects of birth order on an individual's levels of stimulation include differences in personality traits, cognitive abilities, and social skills. For example, firstborn children may be more responsible and achievement-oriented, while later-born children may be more rebellious and creative.

Is birth order the only factor that influences an individual's levels of stimulation?

No, birth order is not the only factor that influences an individual's levels of stimulation. Other factors such as family dynamics, parenting style, and environmental factors can also play a role in shaping an individual's levels of stimulation.

Can birth order have different effects on individuals from different cultures?

Yes, birth order can have different effects on individuals from different cultures. Cultural norms and values can impact how birth order is perceived and may influence the level of stimulation received by different birth order positions. Therefore, the effects of birth order may vary across different cultures.

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