Sibling behavioral attributes are developed through a complex mix of survival instinct and personality. The survival aspect derives from Darwin's principle of divergence theory which states that siblings overcome life competitions by developing a niche or ability. In terms of personality, siblings are alike only 20 percent of the time, reports the National Public Radio. This percentage plays a large role in shaping individual perceptions in siblings despite influencing factors of a shared living environment.
Older Siblings
Younger children often mimic the behaviors of older siblings while attempting to establish a self and group identity. In fact, a 2003 study published by the American Psychological Association found that conduct and behavioral patterns of younger children may be directly influenced by the academic performance and behaviors of older siblings. Researchers believe this pattern to be most prominent in disadvantaged areas where antisocial and delinquent behaviors occur more frequently.
Social Development
Your child's social and emotional development depends partially on his sibling relationships. Siblings help each other fill in generational social etiquette blanks that parents cannot fill. University of Illinois researcher Laurie Kramer says that siblings "are closer to the social environments that children find themselves in during the majority of their day." Siblings teach informal social norms such as how to act at school or on the street.
Rivalry
Sibling rivalry is a normal part of child development. Rivalry typically occurs with the evolving developmental needs and personalities of children in different age groups. A toddler who has just discovered the concept of "mine" may be uncomfortable sharing his valuables with younger siblings. Likewise, children with a firm grasp of fairness may not comprehend why older siblings have more privileges. Perceived infringements on your teenager's growing individuality and independence can also spark rivalry.
Siblings and Sexuality
On average, sibling relationships tend to be more inclusive and reciprocal than parent-child relationships. According to a 2004 study published in JSTOR, close relationships between older and younger siblings, in conjunction with a strong parental role, help to shape adolescent sexual behaviors and attitudes. Younger siblings tend to follow the advice and practices of older siblings regarding safe sex, non-marital adolescent childbearing, refusing sexual advances and communication with sexual partners on condom use.
