A–Z Glossary

Differential treatment

Favoritism is perceived or actual unequal affection, discipline, praise, privileges, or attention directed toward one child over another.

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Sibling relationships in children

Sibling relationships in children

Why sibling relationships matter Siblings often share the most consistent peer-like contact a child has at home. That makes the relationship an important setting for learning how to negotiate turns, read emotions, manage disappointment, and recover after conflict. In everyday life, siblings also influence each other’s routines, interests, language, and sense of belonging. Longitudinal research […]

Encouraging positive sibling relationships

Encouraging positive sibling relationships

Why sibling relationships matter Siblings provide daily opportunities to practice social skills in a relationship that is both intimate and challenging. Children learn how to read facial expressions, negotiate turn-taking, tolerate frustration, apologize, repair harm, and assert preferences. These interactions can support self-regulation, emotional understanding, empathy, and academic competence, especially when the relationship includes warmth […]