Siblings

Definition

Full siblings are children who share both biological parents, while half-siblings share one biological parent. Step-siblings are not biologically related, but each has a biological parent who has formed a new partner relationship together.

Discussion

Relationships with sisters and brothers form one of the longest-lasting family bonds that people may experience. Ties with siblings form part of many people's lives, from their early years into older adulthood. Young children may spend just as much, if not more, time with siblings, as time with their parents. A further distinctive feature of sibling relationships is their seriality: that is, being one among a series of more than one.

The diversity of family structures in most European and New World societies means that the question of who is a sibling ...