Kids who are raised with half or step-siblings are more likely to be aggressive than those who grew up with biological siblings. This is according to a study conducted by the sociologists at the University of Michigan and the University of Colorado-Boulder published this month.
The study, which was done on approximately 6,500 American children, focused on how often a child aggressively behaved at the age of five. Results show that children who grew up with a step-sibling are 10% more aggressive, displaying more tantrums, and tend to be more destructive of others' property than those who grew up without them, according to Yahoo Parenting.
Sociologists look at reasons behind this and found some significant answers. The unequal distribution of resources such as material and emotional is a big factor as children from broken marriage are more emotionally vulnerable.
Growing up from different families and now trying to fit into one roof will require much emotional assistance for them to be able to understand and eventually accept their new situation. Lack of guidance may lead them into looking for other ways to release their confusion were oftentimes aggressive behaviour becomes the outcome, according to Quartz.
The earlier a child's potential aggressiveness is discovered, the easier it will be to manage them. How kids interact during their younger age will be consistent as they get older. So from day one of step-siblings living together, it is very important for both the biological parents to be hands on in opening the door of relationship between them.
Cutting off the monopoly of things which they used to have or do alone is the first step. Addressing them as a team and not as individuals will make them feel the accountability over one another. Spending more time with them together will help them bring their relationship from the level of acquaintanceship into being brothers or sisters.
Whenever differences arise, parents should always keep in mind that they are coaches and not referees. Allow children to speak, express and be open to each other's perspective until they come to the place of agreement, according to Parents.
