Usually, parents think of teenagers as good or bad role models for their younger siblings. However, younger children also influence their older teenage siblings in positive ways, providing opportunities for teens to nurture, teach and become a good example. Younger siblings introduce new ideas, dynamics and needs into a household, sparking sibling rivalry, which is an opportunity for growth and development for your teenager.
Opportunity to Nurture
Having a younger sibling puts a teenager in a position of being a caretaker, an opportunity not as readily available to teenagers who do not have younger siblings. Through contact with a younger sibling, teenagers learn about the needs of younger children and how to care for them. Older siblings observe how younger children see the world differently and practice moderating their own behavior and language in front of a younger person. These influences make a lifelong impression.
Role Model
Teen siblings function as a role model for younger siblings. Although there is a difference in ages, sibling rivalry exists and an older sibling may become threatened by a younger sibling's success, which may influence him to try harder. An example would be a younger sibling getting straight As in school and an older sibling feeling like he needs to study harder, so as not to be "bested" by his younger sibling.
Need to Differentiate
Although it is easy to see how younger children emulate their teenage siblings, teens also attempt to differentiate themselves from their younger siblings, establishing a unique and separate identity. A teen can make her own mark by picking a sport or subject in school in which she excels and establishing her own identity, without having to worry about being upstaged by a younger sibling.
Teaches Conflict Resolution
Sibling rivalry occurs when the needs of a younger child conflict with those of a teenager. Having a younger sibling gives a teenager the opportunity to learn conflict-resolution skills. Whenever possible, adults should take a hands-off approach, allowing the teen the opportunity to develop better communication and negotiation skills. Even an issues as mundane as what channel to watch on television can be a great opportunity for your teen to learn conflict-management skills useful for a lifetime.
