Peer & Sibling Relationships

Sibling relationships last longer than any other relationships and strong sibling relationships provide the groundwork for strong peer relationships. But sibling relationships are frequently conflict-ridden. Children need to learn to get along with their siblings first.

Sibling relationships are very important to a child’s development and the lessons learned within the sibling relationship can set a pattern for how children relate to others outside the family unit.. These relationships allow children to practice certain social abilities such as controlling their emotions, being considerate of others, and conflict resolution at home and at an early age.  Thus, sibling relationships enable children to develop important social skills that otherwise would not develop until the children were in a school setting. Studies have shown that children with siblings have a better social understanding of others’ feelings and emotions, perspectives, and cognitive skills as well as better self-control in school.

In addition to the early development of social skills, living in the same household as siblings tends to create conflict that children need to learn to deal with.  Experiencing social conflicts as a child is important because it allows a child to develop the skills to manage and resolve conflicts. 

Simply having siblings is not what encourages the development of social skills.  It is the quality and closeness of sibling relationships that is fundamental to emotional development in a social setting.  When children have a good relationship with their siblings, they tend to have good relationships with their parents and their friends.  Children who feel more support from their siblings tend to be more socially adjusted.

The goal in managing sibling rivalry effectively is to show children how to get along. Children have to learn how to have relationships; they are not born with it. As a parent, help your children learn how to behave and respond in society, learn how to problem solve in social interactions, and have positive attitudes about relationships and friendships.

If you are concerned that you child is struggling with peer or sibling relationships, the Counseling Center may be able to help. To request a confidential session Contact Us.

Resources:
http://cujo.clemson.edu