The Power of Sibling Bonds: How Teen Relationships Shape Growth and Support BY AMANDA MILLER PHOTO BY PROSTOOLEH AT FREEPIK.COM G rowing up with a sibling means forever having a built-in best friend who helps make navigating causing many to miss out on the many benefits of having a sibling during the teen years in the first place.
that a child may be more likely to confide in a sibling than a parent and may seek a sibling’s support in time of need. Dr. Sidhu says, “This piece is critical, because we know that one of the biggest risk factors for developing youth is suffering in isolation. The ability for young people to express their feelings to anyone— sibling, parent, or friend—can be highly therapeutic and can prevent a worsening of depressed mood or anxiety.”
28 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM relationship proves to be especially essential during the teen years, when experiencing breakups, bullies, friendship struggles, and life transitions are common. However, nurturing the sibling relationship doesn’t always happen, the younger years, the teen years, and even the adult years a little easier. This
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT A sibling relationship can be one of the longest relationships a teen experiences, and they’re one of the most important. Dr. Shawn Sidhu, a psychiatrist with a specialty in behavioral health, shares
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