Final answer:
A counterclaim to the belief that being an only child is best might highlight the social and developmental benefits siblings can offer, the historical context where larger families were advantageous, and the social challenges associated with strict one-child policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
A counterclaim to the statement that being an only child is best might include the benefits of having siblings. Siblings can provide companionship, support, and can help develop social and interpersonal skills. They can navigate social challenges together and offer each other guidance. Despite the one-child-only policies implemented in some countries to address overpopulation concerns, there remains a debate on the social impacts of such policies. Reports of negative social consequences, such as gender imbalances due to the preference for male children, have been associated with these policies. Furthermore, historical context has shown that in certain times and places, larger families were seen as a form of social security, ensuring support in old age and mitigating the impact of child mortality.