How to Deal With Sibling Rivalry

Being born into a family is like having your closest friends chosen for you by lottery. It isn't always a perfect match, and sibling rivalry is rampant in every family with more than one child. As the child having to deal with sibling rivalry, there are things you can do to stave off the feelings of being treated unfairly and having to compete with your siblings.

Instructions

1. Realize that your parents can never love you equally. It is simply not possible. But, that doesn't mean that your parents don't love you each in a different but equally strong, way. Keeping this is mind helps you deal with sibling rivalry.

2. Understand that you are a unique person with your own talents. By comparing yourself to your sister, you are feeding your own insecurities. If your sister is great at gymnastics, work hard to find what your natural talents are and showcase yourself in a big way.

3. Let your anger come out, but not in a violent way. Throwing tantrums when you feel your brother is getting more attention only adds to the problem. But by talking to your parents, and your brother, about feeling left out, you can open their eyes to the situation.

4. Confront your sibling with an issue that you feel has gotten out of hand. No matter what your rivalry is caused by, it can definitely be helped by talking it out and coming to a truce on your own.

5. Ask for time to do things that you want to do. Instead of competing for attention, ask your mom or dad to plan an outing with you. Pinpoint an event, and let them know that it would mean a lot to you if they came along.

6. Compromise with your family. If you aren't interested in playing with your sister at the moment but you know that she really wants to spend time with you, negotiate an even trade with your parents to go to the mall, or see a new movie, later in the day. This makes everyone happy, and you'll win points with your parents.