Introduction to the Special Section: Perspectives on Sibling Relationships: Advancing Child Development Research

Abstract

Abstract— For the vast majority of individuals, relationships with siblings provide a context for life experiences, yet the influences of these relationships are rarely reflected in studies of child and adolescent development. To encourage researchers to take the role of siblings into account in their studies of child development, this Special Section of Child Development Perspectives presents 3 articles that summarize emerging issues related to how siblings are defined in a world of increasingly diverse family forms and multiple cultures and to the unique role of siblings during the transition to adulthood. The Special Section concludes with a commentary that frames sibling issues within the larger context of research on social relationships and child development across the life course.

A Qualitative Investigation of the Sibling Sport Achievement Experience

“…Of the possible relationships an individual may have, the sibling relationship is commonly considered the longest and possibly strongest over the life-course (Conger & Kramer, 2010). Recognizing that siblings can be lifelong fixtures, there exists potential for these significant others to have meaningful influence on one's development (Whiteman, McHale, & Crouter, 2007).…”

The Impact of Siblings During Talent Development: A Longitudinal Examination in Sport

“…The impact of siblings during talent development: A longitudinal examination in sport With the sibling relationship portrayed as the most pervasive and longest lasting across the lifespan (Conger & Kramer, 2010), recognition of the prominent role that siblings can provide during an individual's development is unsurprising (Furman & Buhrmester, 1985). As Howe and Recchia (2014, p. 4) outline, "the sibling relationship is a natural laboratory for young children to learn about their world" and, therefore, must be seen as an important context for individualized growth (Volling, 2003).…”

Gene-Environment Interplay in Interpersonal Relationships across the Lifespan

“…Siblings are children's most common social companions during childhood and, for many, their relationship with their siblings is their longest lasting across development (Conger and Kramer 2010). Sibling research suggests that siblings do impact each other's social, emotional, and cognitive development (Brody 2004;Dunn 2007;McGuire and Shanahan 2010).…”