A Cross Sectional Study of Dynamics of Sibling Relationship

Abstract

The present study was aimed to assess the sibling relationships across the life span from perspective of subjects in different developmental stages. Sibling relationships was explored and examined on selected domains viz. companionship, communication pattern, competiveness, conflict, support, intimacy, respect and self-disclosure and how these domains were affected by a number of variables; gender, birth order, number of siblings, place of residence, present family type, marital status, and gender dyads of subjects. The sample consisted of 160 subjects (40 from each age group viz. childhood, adolescence, adulthood and late adulthood) selected from the urban areas of Agra city through a multi stage stratified random sampling technique. Self-constructed assessment tools were designed for the study in the form of personal data sheets, open ended interview schedule and eco mapping sheets. Data from participants was collected by adopting the face to face interview technique. Interview was audio recorded and later transcribed for data interpretation. newlineResults indicated that domains such as companionship, communication, conflicts, competitiveness, support and intimacy were better in subjects of childhood stage whereas respect and self-disclosure was reported more by the subjects in late adulthood stage. Furthermore, mixed results (positive and negative attributes) were obtained for all the domains according to the various demographic variables. Statistical analysis concluded that developmental stages, gender of the subjects, place of residence and marital status significantly affect the overall sibling bonding. Findings of the study concludes that the sibling relationships play a vital role in an individual s life as they are the only one who spends the longest time of their lives together. newline newline