Younger siblings help older ones become better people: Study
What's the story
We know that children with kind older siblings practise empathy better than others since they learn first-hand. However, a new study published in Child Development offers a fresh perspective on how the sibling dynamic influences our ability to empathize. According to it, younger siblings positively shape up empathy among the older ones, something all first-borns know but dare not admit. Here's more.
The research
452 pairs of siblings, their mothers tested over 18 months
Researchers at the University of Calgary observed 452 pairs of Canadian but ethnically diverse siblings and their mothers over 18 months. To test empathy levels of 18 and 48-month-old siblings, researchers played with each infant individually, faked getting hurt or breaking a toy and noted their reactions at the beginning and end of 18 months.
The findings
Younger siblings boost empathy among older brothers, sisters
It was found that children younger three years can meaningfully impact the development of the older sibling's ability to empathize. The study therefore busts the common notion that because of greater experience and their position in the family, only parents and older siblings can teach empathy and kindness. Younger siblings influence too, a lot more than they are given credit for.
Details
Does the age and gender of siblings matter?
Researchers also explored the effects of age and gender in the development of empathy among siblings. According to them, the bigger the age difference, the greater is the influence of older brothers and sisters. They also hypothesized that younger brothers don't impact their older sister's empathy much. However, both the deductions are debatable since sibling relationships are highly case-specific and cannot be generalized.
Application
Towards better parenting and sibling relationships
The knowledge that older siblings learn to care, share, protect and support from their younger brothers and sisters, much like they learn from them, can be used for more efficient parenting. The new study can also help in building more rewarding sibling relationships and lessening the pressure on parents and older siblings to teach empathy to the young ones in the family.