The Role of Sibling Relationships in Adolescent Development

Abstract

Sibling relationships constitute one of the most enduring and formative social bonds in a person's life, often beginning in early childhood and continuing into adulthood. Despite their significance, sibling interactions are relatively underexplored compared to the roles of parents and peers in adolescent development. This study investigated how three primary dimensions of sibling dynamics—interaction frequency, sibling rivalry, and birth order—influence adolescents’ social confidence, emotional well-being, and identity formation. Using a structured questionnaire disseminated to 100 participants aged 18–30, the study employed thematic analysis to identify key psychological and behavioral trends. The results indicated that positive and frequent sibling interactions significantly contribute to enhanced social competence; sibling rivalry can negatively impact emotional health but can be mitigated through effective conflict resolution; and birth order influences personality traits, responsibility levels, and self-concept. These findings highlight the need to integrate sibling-focused strategies in mental health and educational interventions to foster healthier adolescent development.