Sibling relationships in adolescence across cultures: Predictors, transitions, and support

In addition to being the most long-lasting relationship an individual can develop, the sibling relationship has the potential of offering unique cognitive, social, and emotional provisions throughout the lifespan. This potency is particularly distinct during adolescence, a time of shifting identity and social constellations. This chapter will review research findings on the structural and familial predictors of sibling relationship quality during adolescence. In addition to gender, age, age gap, family size, and gender tilting factors that may impact sibling relationship quality, familial characteristics, particularly parent base factors, have been shown to impact sibling relationship quality both indirectly and directly. The chapter will also assess outcomes associated with sibling support and will examine these predictors and outcomes within a cultural context.