Children who are exposed to hostile conflicts from their parents are at increased risk of developing mental health problems, according to the results of a study published in the medical journal Child Development. But, many children from conflict-ridden homes do not experience significant psychological problems. Good relationships with a sibling can help alleviate the distress of ongoing family conflicts,
Psychologists at the University of Rochester in the United States conducted a study with 236 families, including children with at least one sibling who was not a twin, their mothers and fathers. Families, most of whom were white and middle class, were assessed when children were 12, 13, and 14 years old.
Conflict between parents was measured by observing arguments between mothers and fathers, who were invited to the lab to discuss areas of disagreement. The quality of sibling relationships was measured by questionnaires to mothers. The adolescents reported their distressing reactions to family conflicts. And mothers and teachers filled out questionnaires to assess the psychological problems of young people (such as aggression, depression, anxiety, hyperactivity).
Siblings protect from conflicts
Adolescents who witnessed conflict between their parents had more distressing reactions to conflict one year later, and greater distress reactions, and mental health problems the following year. However, adolescents who had good bonds with their siblings were protected from these distress reactions when they witnessed their parents’ conflict and were ultimately protected from subsequent mental health issues. These protective effects were similar for siblings of different ages and gender combinations.
“Most children not only grow up with a sibling and spend more time interacting with them than with any other member of the family,” said Patrick T. Davies, professor of psychology at the University of Rochester. “We have shown that good relationships with a sibling reduce vulnerability and decrease distress.”
“Strengthening sibling relationships can not only directly promote children’s psychological adjustment, but also offer new approaches to counter the risks associated with the experience of hostility and unresolved conflict between parents.”
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