How can I get along with my sibling?

Fights between siblings are common — in fact, they are a fairly normal part of growing up. Learning how to deal with differences early on can set the stage for a lifetime.

It is good to know why you are fighting and the different things you can do to ease the tension, like effective ways of talking to your brother or sister without it turning into a vicious argument or a slanging match. Sometimes it can’t be resolved and that’s when you might have to agree to disagree.

Conflicts sometimes erupt over issues like who gets more attention, who determines what TV shows to watch, sharing household chores, being granted special privileges, and waiting for turns.

Parents will try to minimize this rivalry by reassuring each one of you that they love you both equally. They may outline a goal or specific behaviour.

The needs of adolescents, teenagers & young adults who live under the same roof change rapidly and anxieties associated with friends, teachers, schools, and even neighbours can affect sibling relationships.

Your brother or sister is, perhaps, the person you’ll know the longest in your life. Having a sister or brother has its advantages. Find out what these advantages are by celebrating your differences & accepting your sibling the same way you would like them to accept you for who you are.

Excerpts from The Teenager Today Magazine – Article by Gratian Vas
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