Passaic Today

Sibling conflicts are a frequent concern for parents, according to Jon Caspi, a Family Science and Human Development professor at Montclair's College for Community Health. "It is perhaps the most persistent and annoying thing about family life," he states. Caspi, who specializes in sibling relationships and is a licensed family therapist, addresses these issues in his new book, “Raising Loving Siblings: How to Stop the Fighting and Help Your Kids Connect,” published by The Guilford Press.

Caspi challenges traditional parenting strategies that may inadvertently fuel sibling discord. He suggests that telling older siblings to share or separating children after fights can lead to lifelong resentments. "Parents should not just focus on the child’s behavior but also reflect on their own behavior," Caspi advises. His book offers insights into understanding family dynamics that contribute to conflict and provides practical methods for fostering stronger sibling bonds.

Caspi outlines several strategies for reducing sibling fighting:

- Avoid taking sides: Statements like “You’re bigger, you should know better” can alienate older siblings.

- Present a united front: Consistent discipline approaches help prevent manipulation by children.

- Let kids resolve conflicts: Allowing children to handle disputes helps them develop problem-solving skills.

- Encourage positive interactions: Praising moments of bonding strengthens relationships.

- Reduce comparisons: Avoid forcing shared activities where comparisons might occur.

- Seek professional help if needed: For ongoing issues, especially those related to marital discord, couples counseling can be beneficial.

The book includes examples from Caspi's practice and personal experiences to help parents identify patterns that exacerbate sibling fighting and suggest alternative approaches.

Caspi highlights the long-term benefits of strong sibling bonds, including improved health, greater happiness, career success, resilience during tough times, and enhanced social skills. "All relationships involve conflict; the goal is to make it productive and occasional rather than constant," he says. "Ultimately, we want siblings to feel connected and supportive of one another."