Learn the real reason behind those spats at the judges' table.

Ever wonder why Ryan and Simon go at it so much? Turns out that their birth order may have something to do with it.

In the American Idol family, Randy is eldest with Simon (surprisingly) and Paula as middle children, and Ryan's the baby. Dr. Kevin Leman, author of The Birth Order Book: Why You Are The Way You Are gives his take on the fights we love to watch each week... 

It's all about Ryan: "Ryan is stereotypical of a baby in that he throws a tantrum when he doesn't get his way. Babies by their nature are manipulative. But they're good with people. They make their money by being quick on their
feet and being good conversationalists," Dr. Leman said. Babies also get their
way by getting attention. This could explain Ryan's little Simon digs right
before commercial.

Mediating Middle Girl: Many a Mom has rolled her eyes at Paula's endless happy medium critiques. Dr. Leman said that a middle child's favorite mantra is, "Why can't we all just get along?" If you're a mediating middle child or have one, watch out! The conflict-avoiding nature of a middle child naturally gravitates to a controlling mate.

Judge Dread: Simon exhibits traits of a middle child as well as a "functional firstborn" according to Dr. Leman, who says that children who may not be first in their families act like firstborns if they are the first of their gender or the eldest in a "subfamily." "He seems like the rebellious one, the one who isn't afraid to act out of the box and think differently," he said. "He isn't influenced by anyone else's vote; if anything, he'll go the opposite direction. He knows he's got power."

That's Hot, Dawg: Eldest Idol family member Randy Jackson "digs in like a bulldog," Dr. Leman said. Eldest children are typically bossy and know exactly how they want life to be. And they will outwork everyone else. Hmm, sounds a little more like Simon to us, what's your view?

Do the American Idol fights remind you of your kids? Do tell...