Sibling Rivalryries In The Family

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In early adolescence, those of which have siblings in their family experience various forms of development changing situations. Sibling relationships are often portrayed in the media as constantly in conflict. Over the past two decades, the interest in research has increased for siblings and how they influence development within the family. Until the last couple of decades, the research and study of sibling relationships wasn’t heavily researched. Sibling rivalry is defined as “competition between siblings for the love, affection, and attention of one or both parents or for other recognition or gain” Leung & Robson (As cited in Phillips & Schrodt, 2015). An example of what can cause sibling rivalry is Differential Parental Treatment (DPT), which simply put is the favoritism of one or more siblings …show more content…

Gold, (as cited in Myers and Odenweller 2015) it was concluded that certain characteristics determined the types of relationships siblings had with one another. Those are, closeness, instrumental support, emotional support, acceptance and approval, psychological involvement, contact, envy, and resentment. Further, these characteristics were used to identify five types of sibling relationships: intimate, congenial, loyal, apathetic, and hostile. Intimate sibling relationships show that the siblings are close to one another, emotionally interdependent, and readily provide support. Congenial relationships are slightly less close, with siblings more willing to argue and disagree with one another. Loyal relationships are not as emotionally involved as the previous types, and feel bound by shared family ties but still provide support when needed. Apathetic types are mainly passive in the relationship with little to no emotional involvement, and little effort given to be emotionally involved. Lastly, hostile relationships openly display resentment, envy and aggression and fail to give and openly receive support (Myers & Odenweller,

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