In Adler's psychoanalytic theory, what is commonly observed about boy siblings of an only girl in a family birth order?

• A. They become estranged from the daughter.
• B. Boy siblings of an only girl can behave protectively toward her; and she may make extra effort to please the father.
• C. The daughter becomes indifferent to parental approval.
• D. The parents ignore gender roles in family dynamics.

Answer: (B)

In Adlerian theory, the family constellation and birth order shape how siblings relate and what they strive for in terms of belonging and social success. When a family has only one girl and the other children are boys, the brothers often feel protective toward their sister, viewing her as the unique female member and standing as her allies within the family. This protective stance helps maintain harmony and reduces rivalry. Meanwhile, the daughter may put extra effort into pleasing the father to gain his approval and strengthen her standing with a central authority figure. This pattern reflects Adler's idea that individuals seek belonging and esteem within the family system, shaping behaviors around gender roles and parental expectations. The other options don’t fit as well because they imply estrangement, indifference to parental approval, or ignoring gender roles, which contradict the emphasis on social interest and family dynamics in Adler's framework.