Emotional Maturity in Siblings and Single Children: An Exploratory Comparison

Abstract

Emotional maturity reflects an individual's ability to regulate emotions and adapt to social environments. While sibling relationships may foster emotional regulation and adaptability, single children often develop independence and self-sufficiency. However, the extent to which sibling presence influences emotional maturity remains unclear. This study examines differences in emotional maturity between individuals with siblings and single children using the Emotional Maturity Scale (EMS) (Singh & Bhargava, 1990). A total of 134 young adults (ages 18–45) participated, comprising 78 individuals with siblings and 56 single children, selected through convenience sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis  was conducted, including the Mann-Whitney U test. The findings indicate that individuals with siblings had a slightly higher mean rank (M = 70.50) compared to single children (M = 63.32). However, the Mann-Whitney U test (U = 1950, Z = -1.208, p = .227) and ANOVA (F = 2.689, p = .103) both suggest that this difference is not statistically significant. The results suggest that the presence of siblings does not significantly influence emotional maturity. While a slight trend toward higher emotional maturity scores was observed in individuals with siblings, the differences were not statistically significant. Future research should examine additional factors such as parental influence, peer relationships, and personality traits to gain a more comprehensive understanding of emotional development among young adults.