Why does Elliott feel scared when he learns about the new baby?

Elliott's fear about the new baby primarily stems from the belief that the arrival of the baby will somehow displace him or diminish his role in the family. This feeling is common among older siblings, as they often worry that they will no longer be the center of attention or that their parents’ love and affection will shift entirely to the new child. Such feelings can lead to anxiety about their importance within the family dynamic.

Understanding this perspective helps to illustrate the emotional complexity of sibling relationships and the natural apprehensions that can accompany significant changes in family structure. While concerns about attention, being a good brother, or the baby's health are valid, Elliott's specific fear highlights a fundamental anxiety about identity and security within the family framework, which resonates deeply with many children in similar situations.