the power of sibling Relationships

Blog by Norma

Growing up with sisters was a whirlwind. My sisters and I always fought, argued, or found ways to annoy each other. I often thought that we would never get along because our interests and personalities were so different. Now, as an adult, my relationship with my sisters is one of the most meaningful and significant relationships I have. 

I started to think about my sisters and our relationships after listening to NPR. NPR's Morning Edition discussed the importance of the quality of sibling relationships and loneliness and depression. Having strong positive relationships with siblings can lead to less feelings of loneliness and depression. Even more interesting, good sibling relationships can determine good emotional health in middle age. 

A study by Professor Megan Gilligan of the University of Missouri found that a shift occurs at age 23, when our relationships with our siblings become more emotionally stable. Having a positive relationship with our siblings doesn't have to mean they are our best friends or that we simply forget about anything that happened during childhood; instead, it means acknowledging the past and moving forward. 

While I can't say for certain if 23 was the shifting point for my sisters and me, I am very happy with the strong and positive relationships we do have. As adults, my sisters have become some of my biggest supporters, and I am theirs. They are the only people who share the same lived experiences I have. We now look at our childhood and reminisce about our silly arguments. What was once fighting over the last piece of candy, taking each other's clothes, and "borrowing" makeup are now memories of shared laughter. 

Check out the link below to listen to/read about the link between the quality of sibling relationships and loneliness and depression.​

https://www.npr.org/2024/04/08/1243347224/study-finds-link-between-quality-of-sibling-relationships-and-loneliness-depress