Monday, October 11, 2010

Open Discussion: Sibling Rivalry

A few days ago, a close friend and I were discussing sibling rivalry.   Where does is stem from?  How is it learned?  In both our families, and hopefully most others, it certainly isn't taught.  And if it isn't widely taught, why is it clearly visible no matter where you travel in the world?  Certainly children crave attention and strive to get noticed by mom and dad, but I find that the majority of arguments in our family have nothing to do with my getting my attention.  At a younger age, I'm sure the egocentric mind plays a major role in sibling rivalry. "I" am the most important person and therefore, "I" should always get my way.  Young minds simply cannot comprehend any differently.  But as the children grow, so does the rivalry.  I know without a doubt that my girls and my friends' girls love each other 100%, but they can go at it like they are enemies.  For a parent, this can be stressful and irritating.  But unfortunately, sibling rivalry is here to stay.  Where do you think sibling rivalry stems from?  What are your thoughts on controlling it?  Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!

3 comments:

Liz Mays said...

That is such a good question. I wonder if it's not partly just human nature to be envious!

Guta Bauer said...

I never have this time of problem, but I have two older brothers and saw both of them bickering each other all the time.

Don't know what happens... Today they have an amazing bond. I think, like blueviolet said, that it is part of human nature this need to be better...

Guta
http://www.murphyslibrary.com/

Lanita said...

Sibling rivalry has exploded in our house recently.

The 5 year old is often heard to say we love her sister more and since we don't love her, she is going to run away.

The 12 year old is less jealous than she used to be, but believes she has caused her sister's need to run away.

Good thing I get a whole week off from them next week!