38 Unit 1 Your Development and Relationships
Sibling Relationships
Sibling relationships can create either harmony or discord within a family.
Special bonds exist among many brothers and sisters. There can be a closeness
not found in any other relationship. Brothers and sisters can be best friends.
They can enjoy being with one another, 2-5. They can share thoughts, feelings,
and belongings.
On the other hand, sibling
relationships can sometimes
involve bitterness, jealousy,
and fi ghting. Sibling rivalry is
competition between brothers
and sisters. Siblings try to
compete with each other in some
ways. When very young, they
may compete for their parents’
attention. As they get older,
they may compete for special
privileges. They might try to
outperform one another in school
or sports, too.
Improving Relations with Parents
The following suggestions may help you improve your relationship with your parents:
• Share your concerns. Keep the lines of communication open. Talk with your parents. Let
them know how you feel. Then ask them to share their feelings. Try to understand their point
of view. Also, explain the reasons for your viewpoint.
• Show you care. Adults sometimes think teens only care about themselves. Let your
parents know you care about them, as well as others.
• Show you are responsible. You have read in this book how you can show that you are
responsible at home and at school. Put some of these ideas into practice. Respect your
parents’ privacy. Remember to do assigned tasks without them needing to ask you. Carry out
all your responsibilities. Prove that you are ready for more.
• Show you can be trusted. In order to receive more freedom, you must prove that you can
handle it. If you say you will be home at a certain time, be home at that time. If you cannot,
call and explain your delay. When your parents know they can trust you, they will be more
likely to give you greater freedom.
Writing Activity
Think about your relationship with your parents. Are there times you have trouble getting
along? What can you do to help relieve the strain? Write a journal entry describing ways you can
help improve your relationship with your parents.
Life Connections
Health Connections
Achieving Healthy Sibling Relations
Siblings often share problems and worries. In order
to help siblings with their problems, try to tune into how
they are feeling. Hear exactly what they are saying.
Try to understand why they are worried. Imagine how
you would feel in the same situations. Avoid making
judgments by saying “You should have….” Listen
instead. Then ask how you can help. Do not give advice
to a sibling unless he or she asks for it. When you do
give advice, give it in a way that shows you care.
Discuss