I think it is a very personal decision and what is right for one is not right for another.
We have an only child, daughter 16. We knew from pregnancy that we were complete and have had no regrets. She LOVES being an only. She is not spoiled or a brat yet she is well cared for and that is one of the perks of being an only. When she has been asked if she wanted a sibling from early on, she has always said no. We are a team and very tight family.
There are teens at my house every weekend and some come here to get away from their own homes and siblings. Last weekend 2 girls were arguing because they wanted to come to our house vs one of theirs for a sleepover. There is more room, they have an entire floor to themselves, they are all good kids and it is not a problem to have them over.
I think there is good and bad with both. You just have to balance out what is right for you.
Our daughter talks, you know how they plan, of having a boy and a girl, already has names picked out, etc. Twins run in our family so we'll see!! She may not marry and have children at all. She has some very high goals for herself and we will support her all the way, whatever she wants to do.
Our daughter will not be burdened with our care as we get older. That is not why we had a child. We have taken steps that will care for us as we age. Daughter's job is to enjoy her life as she has for the past 16 yrs.
I pick up a lot of resentment and some jealousy when questions like this are asked. You know, there are a lot of brats who have siblings as well. It is how you are raised.
I am 6 yrs older than my brother. I was the only child and grandchild until his birth. We have never been close, we get along but we are as different as night and day. I honestly look at him and cannont believe we are related.
Like I said, its a personal choice. We have no regrets with one and only.