University of Queensland professors Pat Noller and Anita Blakely-Smith looked at 355 pairs of siblings ages 13 to 17 years. They found that first-borns enjoy exerting power over younger brothers and sisters, while the younger ones work to keep the peace. The younger siblings were more aware of the older siblings' need for self-esteem, but the first-borns had less concern for their siblings' feelings and enjoyed their successes.
The researchers also found that a similar dynamic occurs in twins, even when the age gap is just a few minutes.
Labels: siblings, happiness, relationships
Posted By: Aspen Education Group