Brothers and sisters learn to build positive relationships in SIBS Program

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. Little is known about how sibling relationships impact child and family functioning, but Penn State researchers are beginning to shed light on intervention strategies that can cultivate healthy and supportive sibling relationships. Parents frequently rank their children's sibling rivalry and conflict as the number one problem they face in family life. "In some other cultures, the roles of older and younger, male and female siblings are better defined, and in those more-structured family relationships, there is not much room for bullying and disrespect," said Mark Feinberg , research professor in the Prevention Research Center for the Promotion of Human Development. "In the United States, and Western culture more generally, there are few guidelines for parents about how to reduce sibling conflict and enhance bonding and solidarity among siblings. "This is an important issue not only because siblings share a lifetime-long relationship, but also because sibling relations appear to be as important as parenting and peer relations for many aspects of a child's development and well-being." The SIBlings are Special (SIBS) Program, started by Feinberg and Susan McHale , professor of human development and family studies , addresses relationships between brothers and sisters, which are critical for learning the life skills that can strengthen a child's development. Results from a randomized trial across 16 elementary schools in Pennsylvania demonstrated that the program shows promise in promoting healthy sibling relationships, improving family life and enhancing children's social, emotional and academic development.