Sibling relationships take on different forms. Some siblings remain very close to each other throughout life, while others eventually become detached. Even in cases where there is a strong unity among siblings, there is the potential for conflict whenever individuals interact. Adult siblings are no exception. Conflict is a natural occurrence in a family, particularly among siblings. How well siblings relate to each other is usually a key to how effectively they cope with conflict.
Step 1
Learn to control your anger. Many siblings have a tendency to react rather than respond to a stressful situation. The American Psychological Association warns that it's important to control your anger before it controls you. Yet expressing your feelings can be an effective motivator when it comes to resolving difficult issues.
Step 2
Let your siblings know that you are angry or upset, but don't yell or cry. Speak at the volume you usually talk. Calm down so that you can express your anger in an assertive but nonthreatening way. Use your tone and body language, and not the intensity of your voice, to communicate your emotions.
Step 3
Call a family conference. Don't leave out any your siblings. Give each an opportunity to express his opinion about the issue at hand. Siblings are more likely to work toward a positive outcome if they feel included in any decision-making process.
Step 4
Determine what it is you are really disagreeing about. If you can talk to your siblings honestly from the start, you can usually reach a doable solution before frustrations and emotions escalate. Encourage everyone involved to discuss her differences of opinion openly and directly.
Step 5
Try again if your initial attempts at conflict resolution fail. It may be that your way of dealing with the problem differs from that of your siblings. Whatever the cause of the quarrel, you don't want hostilities to build.
Step 6
Keep in mind that fighting with your siblings is not necessarily a sign that you don't like each other and can't get along. Conflict often is a way for individuals to express their emotions. That's why it helps not to take disagreements with a sibling personally.
Step 7
Get support from your own family. If you can appreciate those things that you share with your spouse and children, you may find yourself becoming less upset by problems involving your extended family.
