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Published on: July 10, 2017
Conditions of sibling support in adolescence
C J Tucker1, S M McHale, A C Crouter
1Department of Family Studies, 215 Pettee Hall, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire 03824-3599, USA.
Summary
Adolescent siblings support each other in familial and nonfamilial issues. Older siblings are seen as key support for social and school matters, with family dynamics influencing this support.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Sibling relationships are crucial during adolescence.
- Understanding the dynamics of sibling support is important for psychosocial development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the supportive roles of adolescent siblings.
- To identify conditions influencing sibling support for familial and nonfamilial issues.
Main Methods:
- Data collected from 185 adolescent sibling pairs (older and younger).
- In-home interviews assessed family experiences and psychosocial functioning.
- Telephone interviews gathered data on shared daily activities.
Main Results:
- Older siblings are perceived as primary support for nonfamilial issues (social, scholastic).
- Siblings share equally supportive roles regarding familial issues.
- Family background, sibling relationship quality, and adolescent functioning impact support levels.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent sibling support is multifaceted, covering both personal and family matters.
- The quality of the sibling relationship and family context significantly shape support dynamics.
- Findings highlight the integral role of siblings in adolescent social and emotional well-being.
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