Sibling rivalry

The competition between siblings for the love of a parent or for other recognition or gain.


Competition, resentment, or jealousy among brothers and sisters in the same family. Sibling rivalry exists in nearly any family with more than one child. The typical scenario emerges when a new baby arrives. Older children are no longer the center of attention and consequently feel jealous and resentful. This dynamic is especially true when there are close age differences of 1½ to 3 years. Because preschool children have difficulty in sharing their parents’ attention, they feel the most intense jealousy toward a newborn brother or sister. As children grow up together, they gradually become friends. However, some degree of competition and squabbling over toys or privileges are likely to remain. Intense sibling rivalry rarely lasts into adulthood.


The competition between children for attention and affection from others, especially their parents.


The phrase used to depict the fierce rivalry that can occasionally arise among siblings.


 


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