The sibling relationship in ecocultural context

Abstract

For most people, the sibling relationship is the longest-standing relationship they will ever have, yet the sibling relationship cannot be taken for granted as being the same across cultural settings. The study of sibling relationships is an opportunity to examine socio-emotional and cognitive processes of development, as well as cultural values that shape the ways that siblings relate to one another and to their families and communities. Expectations for care, obedience, and helpfulness between or among siblings all vary across cultural groups. The level of emphasis on the sibling relationship is another part of a sociocultural complex of relationships. Rivalry develops out of competitiveness and a focus on independence. Sibling nurturance develops out of cooperation and a focus on interdependence and independence. Cultural expectations for the role of siblings after early childhood also vary, and these expectations are socialized in early childhood. The sibling relationship should be seen as culturally-embedded-shaped by and reflective of the cultural setting in which it develops.