Sibling Relationships in Cross-Cultural Perspective

Abstract

Because the existence of siblings is in itself an almost unavoidable part of family life, some sort of relationship between siblings also exists. Just how universally particular aspects of sibling relationships are found is an important question, however, in view of the great variety in cultural practices around the world. Examining sibling relationships across many cultures leads to an appreciation of the importance of siblings to human family life. Siblings’ lives are closely intertwined throughout life in many nonindustrialized societies, with carefully defined duties and responsibilities. In contrast, more aspects of sibling relationships in industrialized societies are voluntary, yet sibling relationships remain of significance throughout life for most individuals.