By Beth Thomas, MSW, LSW
Youth First
The closeness of sibling relationships can make a lifelong impact. While not only being an important part of our development, these close relationships can also provide knowledge on different areas of life. Of course, no sibling relationship is perfect. The imperfections of the relationship can be another factor in the closeness that will be instilled throughout the relationship.
Having a close relationship with a sibling serves as an additional source of support. Being able to seek comfort and support from a sibling strengthens the relationship and is a way to deepen the relationship overall. Through the duration of their life, most people have reported that with a positive and supportive relationship with a sibling, they have a greater sense of well-being, have less depression and depressive feelings, the satisfaction of their life is higher ranking, and the relationships they have with other people are more positive. On the contrary, research has shown that those with a high-conflict relationship with their sibling are more likely to experience lifelong depression and/or anxiety and have more negative relationships with other people in their life, specifically shown as being aggressive and hostile towards others.
Close relationships with siblings also serve as a learning experience. From the first moment we can communicate with our siblings, we are beginning to learn forms of effective communication. Over time, siblings can express their thoughts and feelings with each other. It may be overlooked, but most siblings negotiate and compromise with each other while growing up. Even if the reason may have been over something not important nowadays, the skills applied and learned are important and grow as we get older. Also, with siblings, we can learn how to negotiate conflicts and resolve challenges we are presented with. While we may not have wanted to compromise or resolve problems with siblings, those moments allowed for learning and development of skills that all of us use in life. Though one can be extremely close with siblings, each person has their own unique identity. Our relationship with siblings helps us become more aware of the differences we have with others and how to embrace our differences.
The longest-lasting relationships in people’s lives are the relationships they have with their siblings. Life does bring about barriers and challenges that can affect relationships. An example of this could be distance. If one sibling moves far away from their family, the siblings lose the physical closeness they once shared. While not being able to see each other in person as much, modern technology has played a part in maintaining the closeness of sibling relationships. Nowadays, siblings can communicate via FaceTime and text messaging on their phones. It is never too late to establish a close relationship with a sibling. Even though someone may not be that close with their sibling, sharing life experiences and being able to grow up together allowed a permanent bond to form. It is greatly encouraged by parents to help build close relationships amongst siblings, specifically early on in childhood. Even as children, the relationship between siblings begins to grow and make its impact early on.
Beth Thomas, MSW, LSW, serves as Youth First Social Worker at St. Joseph Catholic School in Princeton and St. Bernard Catholic School in Rockport.