Sibling Abuse

The concept of sibling abuse emerged as a form of family violence in the early 1980s. Sibling abuse involves emotional, physical, and sexual abuse perpetrated by one sibling against another. Using broad definitions of sibling abuse, prevalence estimates range from 60% to over 95% of individuals reporting experience with sibling abuse. Because it is so common, some argue that these behaviors should not be considered child maltreatment. Instead, they represent normal sibling rivalry and conflict. Others argue that sibling violence should not be accepted because it has serious effects on the victims and may lead to other forms of violent perpetration in the future.

Psychological aggression between siblings is the most common and also the most controversial form of sibling abuse. Nearly all children engage in some name calling or ridicule with a sibling. It is argued that children lack the conflict resolution skills to address situations in a more healthy and mature manner. However, the prevalence may not diminish the impact of these acts, which may also include terrorizing acts such as forced exposure to frightening things, abuse of pets, and destroying prized possessions.

Physical aggression is also common among siblings, with approximately two thirds of siblings engaging in physical violence. Most commonly, this abuse involves less severe forms of violence. However, injury due to physical sibling violence is not uncommon. Critics argue that children are impulsive (e.g., verbal aggression) and lack the maturity to manage anger and conflict. Conversely, physical sibling abuse may also be characterized as an effort to control and dominate, much like other forms of interpersonal violence.

Sexual abuse between siblings is the least common and also the least controversial. Describing sexual activity as including a wide range of acts, such as sexual hugging and kissing, exhibiting or fondling genital areas, and sexual intercourse, approximately 10%-15% of college students report these behaviors with a sibling. The majority of these involve less severe experiences. Most agree that sexual behavior between siblings is inappropriate and abusive. However, sexual curiosity is considered a normal part of sexual development for young children. Therefore, mutual exploration at some ages may not always be exploitative or abusive.