Whenever a family grows from an only child to two or more, the question arises, 'How well do the children get along?' Some discussions imply that sibling rivalry or strong feelings of jealousy are inevitable. But is rivalry a regular pattern of family life? How can you help, even if it is not a large problem?
Judy Dunn completed a great deal of observational research in families from the 1980s onwards. She and her colleagues highlighted the great variety that can be seen and heard in sibling relationships. The arrival of a new baby was an adjustment for older children and some were not at all pleased about this change. Yet Dunn's research showed a lot of playful interaction and caring relationships, as well as persistent wind-ups and emotional quarrels. Her research also highlighted how young children were observant of adults' behaviour and alert to any difference in how siblings were treated.
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