Sibling relationships are some of the longest-lasting relationships we have in our lives. Half of Canadians and around 80 per cent of people worldwide have at least one sibling. Sibling relationships are unique from all other relationships because siblings often grow up together and share family history. Biological siblings even share genetics.
In childhood, children spend more time with their siblings than anyone else, including their parents. A longitudinal study found that the quality of sibling relationships in young adulthood was one of the strongest predictors of well-being at age 65.
Sibling relationships change as we grow. In early adulthood, maintaining the sibling relationship becomes a matter of choice, although most sibling relationships last a lifetime. In childhood, parents have important roles to play setting the stage for life-long positive sibling relationships.
