In recent years, the number of couples choosing to have one child has risen sharply. Whether it's by choice or fate, having a single child presents unique considerations, opportunities, and advantages. Social psychologist Susan Newman, who has been studying single-child families since the 1980s, shatters the myths of the lonely, spoiled only child, and provides in-depth coverage of the critical issues including:

• Making the right family size decision for you
• Withstanding the pressure to have another
• Maintaining a balance of power in a three-member household
• Single-parenting the only child
• Setting boundaries with a child who is used to having your undivided attention
• Fostering high achievement, creativity, and independence in only children
• The effects of having parents, instead of siblings, as role models
• Confronting age-old only-child stereotypes
• Building family networks and other support systems for the future.