Relationships – Fighting with Siblings

Why do Siblings Fight?

Arguing and fighting with your siblings (brothers and sisters) is normal: you spend so much time together under one roof, it’s bound to happen! However, always make sure to let your sibling know that you love them and that you don’t truly intend to hurt them. It is important to always feel respected within a family, and to forgive each other after an argument has ended. If you’re looking for some ideas on how to deal with anger, check out our articles about anger.

There are a number of reasons why you and your siblings might fight with each other:

Competition

Sometimes kids feel like they have to fight for their parents’ attention, and do this by fighting with each other. You don’t have to fight to get attention: There are other great ways to get your parents’ attention like trying your best at school or in a sport. Helping around the house is also another great way to get approval from your parents who might feel overtired or overworked.

Frustration about something else in your life

Sometimes there might be something else going on in your life, like a break up with a girlfriend or boyfriend. It is possible to take out this frustration on the people you live with, like your siblings. Remember that your siblings care for you, and by talking to them about how you are feeling you will be able to have a stronger friendship with them. Often, siblings have a lot of great advice!

You are total opposites

Sometimes siblings have nothing in common, and so can’t get along. One of you loves science fiction and the other loves romantic comedies – how will you ever watch TV together?! Sometimes it helps to learn more about your sibling and their interests. Take your sibling’s opposite interests as a chance to learn more about the world.

Remember that you are important. Your life counts, and you can make a difference in this world. If you ever need to talk about this or anything else, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re here for you.

Can Siblings Get Along?

Arguing and fighting between siblings is normal, but you can get along. Sometimes it takes time – here are some great ideas on how to get along with your brother or sister.

Don’t get trapped

Our brothers and sisters live with us, so they know how to wind you up. If you notice your sibling trying to ‘push your buttons’ and bug you on purpose, ignore it or walk away. If you feel that you are beginning to lose the plot with them, check out our articles about anger for some ideas on how to chill out.

Talk to your sibling

If you are able to talk to them about the problem, do it with respect and in peace. Make sure you are both in a good mood, and let them know that you still love them, even if you can’t quite use that word!

Talk with a friend

If you have friends that used to fight with their siblings, ask them how they got through it. Friends often have some really good ideas on dealing with irritating brothers and sisters..

Get your feelings out

If your sibling really bugs you, get your emotions out in a private journal. This is a great way to get out all the things you are feeling inside, without hurting your sibling’s feelings and saying things you regret. But do keep it private. Sometimes, writing things down and throwing it in the garbage helps release feelings.

Find the source of the problem

Do you and your sibling fight more when you’re tired? How about when you’ve received a report card that didn’t go as well as you’d hoped? Look for the triggers that encourage you to fight and intentionally avoid fighting with your sibling during these times.

Remember the good times

Eventually you won’t be living with your sibling, so remember the good times and enjoy them as much as possible. Have fun, share your stuff (yes girls, even your clothes), and remember that your siblings can also be your friends.